Security has been heightened at the Government House in Benin City’s Government Reservation Area (GRA) as the reinstated Edo State Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, is expected to resume office on Monday. A large presence of security operatives, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have taken positions, alongside Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), to prevent any disruption.
The precaution comes in response to speculation that Shaibu plans to return to office following two court rulings in his favor. However, access to the Government House has been restricted, with vehicles stopped at the first gate, requiring staff, visitors, and journalists to continue on foot.
Shaibu’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebomhiana Musa, addressed concerns about the Deputy Governor’s return, insisting that Shaibu is committed to peace and the rule of law. He emphasized that Shaibu, now legally reinstated, has no need for conflict to claim his rightful position. Musa also took a swipe at the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, referencing the results of the recent governorship election, where Obaseki’s preferred candidate, Asue Ighodalo, was allegedly rejected by voters.
Governor Obaseki’s Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, countered by accusing Shaibu of planning to invade the Government House with thugs to enforce his reinstatement, despite a stay of execution appeal being filed against the court judgment. Osagie urged the Inspector-General of Police and other authorities to intervene, describing Shaibu's alleged actions as a threat to peace.
Shaibu’s camp has strongly denied these allegations, reaffirming his peaceful approach. As tensions mount, both sides remain locked in a standoff, with the situation attracting national attention.
