In a dramatic turn of events, Edo State’s Deputy Governor, Phillip Shaibu, has relocated his office from the Government House.
This follows the withdrawal of a lawsuit he had filed at the Federal High Court. The lawsuit aimed to thwart alleged attempts by the state governor, Godwin Obaseki, to unseat him from his position.
The Deputy Governor’s new office now finds its home at No. 7, Dennis Osadebey Avenue, situated in close proximity to the Government House. This surprising move has raised eyebrows and prompted speculation about the ongoing rift between the two top officials.
Sources close to the Deputy Governor disclosed that a formal communication was sent by the Head of Service to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor. The communication instructed her to oversee the transfer of civil servants and official documents to the new office premises.
However, it has been revealed that the new office space poses significant challenges. Reports indicate that the premises lack basic amenities, such as electricity, and are prone to waterlogging. Furthermore, the office spaces provided are considerably smaller than those at the Government House.
In response to these developments, the state government has maintained its stance that the Deputy Governor’s new office falls within the designated area of the Government House. This assertion has ignited further controversy surrounding the issue, with conflicting interpretations of the boundaries of the Government House premises.
The relocation of the Deputy Governor’s office comes at a time when tensions between Phillip Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki have been escalating. The withdrawal of the lawsuit and the subsequent move signify a significant shift in the dynamics of Edo State’s political landscape.
As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the ongoing legal battles and administrative changes will impact the governance of the state and whether the relationship between the Deputy Governor and the Governor can be mended.
