Security Forces Surround Edo Govt House Amid Reports of Shaibu’s Planned Resumption

Personnel from Nigeria’s security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), surrounded the Edo State Government House on Monday.

This followed reports that Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu was expected to resume office.

The security presence, which included Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), was aimed at preventing any potential breakdown of law and order. Vehicles were barred from entering the premises, with staff, journalists, and visitors asked to leave their cars at the gate and proceed on foot.

In response, Shaibu’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebomhiana Musa, denied claims of any plans to invade the Government House. In a statement, Musa emphasized that Shaibu is a law-abiding, peace-loving man and called on Governor Godwin Obaseki to respect the court orders affirming Shaibu’s position as Deputy Governor.

“Our attention has been drawn to reports suggesting the Deputy Governor plans to invade the Government House to enforce two court judgments ordering his reinstatement. This is false,” Musa said. He further urged the governor’s camp to accept the outcome of the recent governorship election, in which Obaseki’s preferred candidate was reportedly defeated.

Musa also criticized Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to Governor Obaseki on Media Projects, accusing him of spreading false information.