There appears to be a tense atmosphere within the government as Edo State has accused Philip Shaibu of planning an invasion of the Edo State Government to enforce his reinstatement. This comes after he filed an appeal for a stay of execution to challenge the earlier ruling of Justice J. K. Omotosho in the case.
Despite unsuccessful attempts to contact Shaibu, his office along Commercial Avenue was deserted, with an armed police van parked at the gate. Staff were transferred to the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Agency (JOOPSA) and official vehicles, including the press team bus, were moved to the office of the Head of Service in the Osadebey Avenue Government House.
Recent events point to a potential escalation of tension, with calls on the Inspector General of Police and all Nigerians to prevent Shaibu from forcing his way into the Edo Government, lest he cause chaos. The letter addressed to the IGP and other stakeholders stresses the need to suspend all actions related to the execution of the court order pending the disposition of the stay application.
Shaibu’s lawyer refuted the allegations, calling on the government to accept the outcome of the elections. Shaibu’s response to the accusations underscores his refusal to be drawn into political manipulation and propaganda.
This narrative highlights the intensity of the ongoing political conflicts and underscores the challenges of public security and law and order. It is crucial that all parties involved exercise restraint and responsibility to avoid any escalation of violence and tensions.