The crisis between Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, took a new twist when the Department of State Services (DSS) denied Shaibu access to the governor.
According to Dailytrust paper, Shaibu was one of the guests who attended the church service to mark the 32nd anniversary of the creation of Edo State.
The deputy governor stood up to welcome Obaseki at the function on Sunday that took place in the New Festival Hall of Government House, Benin, but a DSS agent barred him only a few meters away.
Obaseki, who was seated next to his wife Betsy and Delta State Commissioner Charles Aniagwu, turned away as Shaibu tried in vain to explain to the plain-clothed security guard who was defending his position.
Later, the deputy governor went back to his chair.
In response to the situation, the governor’s chief press secretary, Andrew Okungbowa, stated that the DSS agent was simply carrying out his duties.
“Neither the governor nor his security aides were responsible for anything that occurred during the church service. The security guards were, in reality, carrying out their duties.
In addition, the governor was unaware that the deputy was approaching him to say hello. The security assistants had a responsibility to protect their principal because the church was a public gathering, he claimed.
Despite the unpleasant situation, Shaibu vowed to be the governor’s only supporter.
The deputy governor referred to Obaseki as his older brother when speaking with journalists there.
My allegiance to the governor of Edo is unwavering, he declared. Everyone is showing solidarity, as I can see. I support the governor in this as well. I also reaffirm my unwavering allegiance to the governor and my sympathy with him.
“I really wouldn’t want to talk about the problems that existed in the community while I was abroad (in the United States of America). I don’t like talking about topics that bother my governor. He is both my employer and older brother. I don’t believe I should discuss anything.
“It is preferable to resolve any concerns I have with him (Obaseki) at home rather than in the public. I had a good upbringing.
“I can tell you from my Christian upbringing that you must keep a pledge you make to God if you want to do something. Additionally, I have sworn to God that I will support Godwin Obaseki as governor of Edo State throughout his tenure.
But nothing involving ambition is stopped by this. Ambition is a personal trait that has no bearing on loyalty. My devotion to the governor is unwavering.
Although the governor is pushing for a replacement from Esanland in Edo Central senatorial district, Shu’aibu, who is from Edo North senatorial district, aims to succeed Obaseki, a native of Benin, in Edo South senatorial district.
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