By Milcah Tanimu
The Edo State Government has dissolved the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu. In a statement released by the state’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, the government has instructed the Deputy Governor to formally request media coverage of his activities from the Ministry of Communication and Orientation.
The decision follows an incident that occurred during a colloquium commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum celebration at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and Soundstage. Some individuals claiming to be the Deputy Governor’s media crew attempted to enter the venue where the governor and other dignitaries were seated, resulting in a breach of the established protocol for media coverage.
The statement from the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation stated, “The orchestrated and stage-managed walkout and disruption is highly regrettable.”
This move is likely to escalate the ongoing conflict between Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy, Philip Shaibu.
During the colloquium, members of the deputy governor’s media crew were reportedly removed from the venue by security agents on the instructions of the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) and the Public Relations Officer of the Governor’s Office, Ms. Osarumwense Ojo. This action led to the Deputy Governor’s departure from the event.
However, sources from the government house have stated that no physical altercation occurred, and no one was barred from attending the event by the CPS or Ojo.
The incident highlights the deepening tensions between the governor and his deputy, reflecting a broader political struggle within the Edo State government.
