Philip Shaibu, recently reinstated as Edo State’s deputy governor, has voiced his commitment to ensuring a seamless power transfer to the incoming administration, even if Governor Godwin Obaseki is absent from the ceremony. Monday Okpebholo is set to be sworn in as the new governor of Edo State in Benin City on Tuesday.
Tensions have simmered in the lead-up to the inauguration. Over the weekend, Godspower Inegbe, media aide to governor-elect Okpebholo, accused Governor Obaseki of creating hurdles to the transition process. Inegbe expressed concerns that Obaseki's resistance could stir unnecessary unrest, underscoring the need for cooperation to maintain the stability of the state.
Despite these challenges, Shaibu remains optimistic. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, he expressed his eagerness to hand over the office. “I am excited and ready to ensure a smooth transition,” Shaibu stated. “The office of the governor is singular, so if the governor is unavailable, I am prepared to complete the handover to the deputy governor-elect.”
Shaibu confirmed that on Monday he had taken Dennis Idahosa, the incoming deputy governor, on a tour of the government facilities, showing him around and preparing the necessary documents for the official transition. “All the paperwork is ready; immediately after the swearing-in, we’ll proceed to complete the handover,” Shaibu said.
However, Shaibu acknowledged a strained relationship with Obaseki, noting that they haven’t spoken in days. “I last saw him four days ago, and we’ve had no communication,” he revealed. “It’s unfortunate. This is the first time a governor and his deputy have parted ways without any dialogue.”
Obaseki and Shaibu’s disagreements have been ongoing throughout the year, leading to mounting public scrutiny of Edo State’s political landscape as it prepares for a new administration.
