Security beefed up around Edo State Government House on Osadebey Avenue on Monday due to speculations that the state’s deputy governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, was preparing to resume his duties.
The Edo State House of Assembly had earlier removed Shaibu from his position amid a disagreement with Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Shaibu challenged his dismissal in court, alleging that the assembly members did not give him a fair hearing.
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja, led by Justice J. K. Omotosho, ruled that Shaibu’s removal was invalid and ordered his reinstatement.
Despite this ruling, the state government has not complied, stating they have appealed the decision.
On Monday morning, visitors and government employees faced difficulties accessing the Government House area.
Many were seen walking long distances after having to leave their vehicles parked along the roadside due to restrictions imposed by security forces that cordoned off the area. Only security vehicles were allowed to access Osadebe Avenue freely.
One government employee, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed surprise at the heightened security measures currently in place at the government house which was ostensibly mounted to prevent Shaibu from the rumoured bid to return as deputy governor.
The situation remains tense as the community watches for further developments regarding Shaibu’s potential return to office.