Shuiabu

The Edo State government has issued a public notice demanding the return of 22 official government vehicles currently in the possession of former Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu.

The directive in a statement signed by Chris Osa Nehikhare, Hon. Commissioner of Communication and Orientation, sets a strict deadline for compliance.

“The former Deputy Governor is given a seven-day ultimatum from today to return the vehicles,” stated Commissioner Nehikhare. He emphasised that failing to do so would prompt action from relevant security agencies tasked with retrieval.

The list of vehicles to be returned includes various models such as the 2021 model Toyota Landcruiser, Toyota Prado Jeep, Toyota Hilux Van, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Sienna, Jin Bei Hiase, Mitsubishi Pajero, and an armored Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep.

Each vehicle is identified with specific VIN numbers and details regarding their condition (brand new or pre-owned).

“These vehicles are essential for government operations, and their prompt return is crucial,” Commissioner Nehikhare emphasised.

“The Edo State Government urges the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the vehicles are retrieved and returned to official use without delay.

Shaibu was impeached in April by the State House of Assembly, putting an end to a prolonged conflict with Governor Godwin Obaseki.

The impeachment took place during a plenary session in Benin City, following months of strained relations between the two leaders.

The decision came after a seven-man committee, appointed by Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa, investigated allegations of misconduct against Shaibu. Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian disclosed that the committee’s report found Shaibu not guilty of perjury but culpable for disclosing government secrets, recommending his impeachment on those grounds.

With 18 out of 19 members voting in favour, exceeding the required two-thirds majority, the Assembly approved the recommendation and subsequently impeached Shaibu. Speaker Agbebaku instructed Clerk Yahaya Omogbai to deliver the impeachment notice to Governor Obaseki for final approval.

Meanwhile, Shaibu, who had contested the impeachment in court, denounced it as an assault on democracy, asserting his legal right to seek the 2024 governorship under the PDP.

Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has officially declared his ambition to succeed his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, as Governor of Edo State in the 2024 election.

The announcement comes after weeks of speculation about Shaibu’s plans.

In a pre-recorded speech aired today, he said, “This is why today, I stand before you with great conviction and resolve, as I declare my intention to run for the office of the Governor of Edo State under the platform of the

“Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming 2024 election and I am confident that with your support, we can take Edo State to even greater heights.

“My fellow citizens and party faithful, our campaign will be built upon five core pillars, each vital to the transformation and prosperity of our beloved state.”

Shaibu launched his campaign office in Benin City, the state capital, after the declaration.

Recall that last week, the deputy governor revealed that he will formally declare his intention to run for the 2024 Edo State governorship election this week.

An invitation dated November 23, 2023, which the Philip Shaibu Campaign Organisation made available to newsmen last week, read: “On behalf of Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu Campaign Organisation, I invite you to honour me with your esteemed presence as I offer myself to serve as the Chief Servant (Governor) of Edo State.”

Shaibu’s declaration sets the stage for a battle between him and Obaseki. Obaseki is reportedly backing another candidate to succeed him, and the two have been at odds in recent months.