Obaseki, Shaibu’s rift worsens as Edo government relocates Deputy Gov’s Office out of Govt House

 

The government of Edo State has relocated the Office of the Deputy Governor out of the Government House. 

The action follows the growing rift between the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Philip Shaibu. 

It was gathered that the new office is situated at no 7, Dennis Osadebey Avenue, close to the government house.

The new deputy governor’s office used to be the state Public Procurement Office commissioned by a former Governor of the state, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, on December 16, 2014.

A signboard with the inscription, “Office of The Deputy Governor” has been erected at the entrance at the building.

One of the workers said they were expected to deliver the building on Monday.

He said he did not know what the building was going to be used for, adding that he had not seen the sign board placed at the entrance.

When contacted,Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said, “If there is a government signboard saying so, then it must be so, per Daily Trust report. 

The battle for succession has pitched the deputy governor against the state’s number one citizen.

Shaibu, who hails from Edo North Senatorial District, intends to succeed Obaseki, an indigene of Benin in Edo South senatorial district, but the governor is pushing for a successor from Esanland in Edo Central senatorial district.

Last Monday, Shaibu staged a walkout at an event organised by the government after his aides were forced out of the hall.

The incident happened barely 24 hours after a Department of State Services (DSS) operative denied Shaibu access to Governor Godwin Obaseki, on Sunday.

Shaibu was one of the guests who attended the church service to mark the 32nd anniversary of the creation of Edo State.