The political landscape of Edo State has been shaken once again! Governor Godwin Obaseki has appointed a new deputy, 38-year-old engineer Omobayo Godwin, following the dramatic impeachment of Philip Shaibu on Monday. This move comes after a period of simmering tension between Obaseki and Shaibu, his former deputy.
What Led to the Impeachment?
The official reason for Shaibu’s impeachment, according to a panel established for the proceedings, is the alleged leaking of state government secrets. However, there’s a strong undercurrent of personal friction. Many Nigerians believe the rift began when Obaseki refused to back Shaibu’s own gubernatorial ambitions.
Nigerians React: Divided Opinions
The situation has sparked a firestorm of reactions amongst Nigerians. Isah Mohammed, a commentator, expressed outrage: “He stood with you and made himself enemy of his own Elder brother…Today, he is enemy of the state for stood up to contest… It is his constitutional right.” This sentiment highlights the loyalty Shaibu displayed towards Obaseki in the past and his perceived punishment for daring to pursue his own political goals.
Ngozi Amaechi, another commenter, took a historical perspective: “it runs in their family blood…Trace it back to his ancestor, chief obaseki, how he betrayed Oba ovoranwe Ndogbaisi. This is why history is important.” This statement suggests a long-standing pattern of betrayal within Obaseki’s family lineage.
Concerns About PDP’s Chances
Many Nigerians are questioning the timing and potential consequences of Obaseki’s actions. With just a few months left in his term, some, like Ngozi Amaechi, believe Obaseki is behaving like a tyrant and that his actions could jeopardize the PDP’s chances in the upcoming elections. “We hope Obaseki knows his actions will ruin PDP’s chances in the upcoming election? For crying out loud it’s just remaining few months for Obaseki to leave office why behave like a tyrant.”
The Plot Thickens
Shaibu did attempt to halt the impeachment process by serving Obaseki and the House of Assembly with a lawsuit. However, the impeachment went forward regardless.
The key question remains: Was Philip Shaibu truly a security risk, or is this a case of political maneuvering ahead of the elections?
