The Edo State Government has raised concerns over an alleged plan by former Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu to storm the Edo State Government House on Monday, September 30, in an attempt to enforce his reinstatement.
This action, according to the government, defies an ongoing stay of execution appeal challenging a court ruling by Justice J. K. Omotosho, which had earlier ruled in Shaibu’s favor.
In a statement issued by Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, the administration called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and concerned citizens to intervene, warning that Shaibu’s actions could incite chaos and further violence.
Osagie referenced a prior attempt by Shaibu to forcefully enter the Government House, which tragically led to the death of a police officer.
“We urge the IGP to act on intelligence we’ve gathered about a planned move by Comrade Shaibu to forcefully enter the Government House,” Osagie said. “A stay of execution has been filed with the Court of Appeal, and until a ruling is made, any attempt to enforce the previous judgment could lead to anarchy.”
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Osagie emphasized that government lawyers have already reached out to the IGP and other relevant authorities, stressing the importance of maintaining order until the Court of Appeal has decided on the stay of execution.
He further stated that granting Shaibu’s move before the appeal is resolved could undermine the legal process and destabilize peace in Edo State.
The government’s appeal raises substantial legal questions about the enforcement of the original ruling and argues that any premature action on Shaibu’s part could lead to a breach of peace in Benin City and across the state.