Edo: One state, two deputy governors

Edo State, located in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, is currently embroiled in a rather strange but real leadership conflict.

The State governed by Godwin Obaseki has two individuals parading themselves deputy governors.

This crisis began when Comrade Philip Shaibu, Obaseki’s now estranged ally, was impeached as deputy governor by the Edo State House of Assembly on April 8, 2024.

By implication, Obaseki nominated 1986-born Godwin Marvellous Omobayo, as Shuaibu’s replacement. Mr Omobayo has since been sworn-in.

Shaibu proceeded to challenge his impeachment in court and emerged victorious.

The Abuja Federal High Court declared his impeachment null and void, citing gross violation of Sections 188 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution.

The Power Struggle

Despite the court ruling, the Edo State government has refused to recognize Shaibu’s reinstatement, maintaining that Omobayo remains the legitimate deputy governor.

This has created a power struggle between the two individuals, with each claiming the right to occupy the office.

A federal legislator, Senator Roland Owie described the situation as “unfortunate,” emphasizing that the law is clear: until the judgment is reversed, Shaibu remains the deputy governor.

On the other hand, the Edo State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Hillary Otsu, argued that Omobayo remains the deputy governor until the Supreme Court makes a final ruling.

Implications and Repercussions

The implications of this crisis are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the peace and stability of Edo State.

Ultimately, the resolution of this crisis lies with the courts, and the people of Edo State await a final verdict to determine who is the legitimate deputy governor.

As I write, Omobayo is currently occupying the office. Governor Godwin Obaseki, who appointed Omobayo as deputy governor, the Edo State House of Assembly, which impeached Shuaibu, and the state chapter of the PDP, are key supporters of the young Omobayo.

For instance, the Edo State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Hillary Otsu, notes that if the court has ruled that Shaibu is the deputy governor, no government can change that until a higher court rules to stay the execution of the judgment.

Otsu queried, “What more do they want from the court?” lamenting the penchant of many Nigerians to disobey court judgments.

The state Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Hon. Harrison Omagbon, stated that the Constitution declares the Supreme Court as the final court for determining the case.

“If, in the final, the Supreme Court upholds Shaibu as the deputy governor, the other person steps out of the way because we are respecters of the law,” Omagbon said.

In his comment, Senator Roland Owie emphasized the importance of respecting the law, saying, “Nobody should take law into his hands; Nigeria is governed by laws. Let the case run its full course.” Owie described the development in the state as unfortunate.

Shuaibu operates from home 

Shaibu, the beneficiary of the judgment, having met stiff resistance upon attempting to resume duties at the Edo State Government House, opted to operate and perform his official duties from his private home in the meantime, perhaps to douse the high political tension.

Crossfire of opinions

As expected, the crisis has generated debate and divided opinion across Edo State and beyond.

Many people are of the opinion that despite the appeal and stay of execution application filed by the state government against the judgment, its execution ought to be carried out immediately because, in the eye of the law, Shuaibu is the deputy governor of the state until a superior court of records rules otherwise.

Others argue that the final determination of the matter lies with the pronouncement of the Supreme Court of the country.

The court dismissed the state House of Assembly’s reason for impeaching Shaibu, describing it as “lame and smacks of orchestrated political vendetta”.

It held that “the removal of Shaibu from office as deputy governor of Edo State and the subsequent appointment of Godwins as his replacement by the state governor is illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void.”

Way forward?

Incumbent governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure as Governor of Edo State which began on November 12, 2016, was renewed in 2020. His second term ends in office ends on November 12, 2024.

The November 12 date is just few days away. Obaseki is very unlikely to facilitate the swearing in of Shuaibu before his tenure slams shut. That being said, Shuaibu might seek legal redress against Obaseki, Omobayo and the House of Assembly at the expiration of the incumbent administration.

Only time will tell!

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