The atmosphere within the premises of the Edo State Government in Dennis Osadebay Avenue could intensify today as Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu resumes his duties, following a recent discord with his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki.
After being on a one-month leave, Shaibu, who had engaged in a conflict with Obaseki due to his gubernatorial aspirations, is set to rejoin the government.
The deputy governor previously initiated legal proceedings against his principal, the state House of Assembly, and other parties, with the aim of halting an alleged impeachment scheme.
In light of the controversies and criticisms that followed, Musa Ebomhiana, Chief Press Secretary to Shaibu, affirmed to Vanguard that his boss would indeed resume work today.
A well-informed insider mentioned that Obaseki remains taken aback by his deputy’s actions, despite attempts by certain political leaders to mediate. Consequently, there is speculation that Obaseki might establish a new office beyond the Government House, where he can manage official matters.
However, it remains uncertain whether the governor would also conduct executive committee meetings within the new office, located approximately 1,500 meters from the seldom-used emergency entrance of the Government House.
In a separate engagement, Governor Obaseki is scheduled to host Sheriff Oborevwori, his counterpart from Delta State, and other key stakeholders from both Delta and Edo states at a colloquium. This event commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum.
A statement issued by Andrew Okungbowa, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, outlined the colloquium as one of the events lined up to celebrate the diamond jubilee of the referendum.