“Never A Deputy Governor” — Shaibu Cites Court Judgment as He Clashes with Omobayo Over Edo Representation at Former Deputy Governors’ Forum

A heated exchange unfolded at the Fourth Annual National Conference of the Former Deputy Governors’ Forum in Abuja on Tuesday as Philip Shaibu and Omobayo Godwins clashed over who should represent Edo State at the event.

The tension erupted when Omobayo was introduced as a former deputy governor, prompting Shaibu to publicly object. The disagreement briefly disrupted proceedings, drawing attention from delegates and dignitaries present.

Shaibu, addressing the forum, insisted that Omobayo was never legitimately elected as Edo Deputy Governor, alleging he was brought into office through the backdoor. He cited a Federal High Court ruling which declared his impeachment illegal and stated that the office of deputy governor was never vacant. “It was never proper and it was never right. The court had to rule that he never existed as deputy governor for three months,” Shaibu said. He further emphasized that Omobayo must cease presenting himself as a former deputy governor and return official items such as the car bearing the state coat of arms, while all other entitlements could be retained.

Shaibu added that the case against Omobayo, initially considered for withdrawal following appeals from traditional rulers and leaders, would continue as the record needed to be corrected. He stressed the importance of maintaining transparency and avoiding the impersonation of public officeholders.

In response, Omobayo maintained that he never claimed to have made himself deputy governor and described the confrontation as “almost a national disgrace.” He said he had sought to remain calm despite the public dispute, emphasized respect for Shaibu as an elder and political colleague, and noted that there is an ongoing appeal in the case. He also stated that the current state government paid him his November salary before it was stopped.

The clash reflects lingering tensions from Edo State’s political upheaval. Shaibu was impeached as Deputy Governor in April 2024 and replaced by Omobayo, but a subsequent court ruling reinstated him, declaring the impeachment unlawful.

Delegates at the forum, which aims to foster dialogue and national unity among former deputy governors, witnessed the dispute, highlighting the continuing sensitivities in Edo State politics.