No Reason For War! Ex-ALGON Boss Slams Shaibu, Omobayo Over Deputy Gov Rivalry

Shaibu, who was initially Obaseki’s deputy, was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly after a fallout with the governor, leading to Omobayo’s appointment as his successor. Although a court later nullified Shaibu’s impeachment, he was not reinstated before Obaseki’s tenure ended last year.

The rivalry between the two resurfaced recently when Shaibu reportedly protested the introduction of Omobayo as a former deputy governor at a public event.

In a statement on Wednesday, Osifo said both men occupied the office at different times and should not be in conflict.

He described the incident as embarrassing, noting: “There is no basis for any dispute between Philip Shaibu and Marvellous Omobayo, who both served as deputy governors to Godwin Obaseki.

“Omobayo was duly nominated by Obaseki, just as Shaibu was. The constitution clearly outlines the process for nominating a deputy governor. Shaibu knows Omobayo was appointed by the same governor who appointed him.

“So why is Shaibu treating Omobayo’s recognition as a former deputy governor as a personal matter? There is absolutely no basis for such hostility.

“I watched the embarrassing protest on national television. It was unnecessary. Omobayo had no role in Shaibu’s removal, and no objection or legal argument can change the historical fact that he once served as deputy governor.

“Shaibu is entitled to challenge the process of his removal, but he should not direct his frustration at someone who merely benefited from a legitimate government decision.”

Osifo added that both men are from Edo North and expressed hope that Shaibu will pursue a peaceful and cordial relationship with Omobayo.