Edo Government Demands Ex-Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu Return 22 Official Vehicles Within Seven Days

The Edo State government has issued a public ultimatum to former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, demanding the return of 22 official vehicles within seven days. This directive, signed by the Honorable Commissioner of Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, warns of potential involvement from security agencies if the vehicles are not returned promptly.

“The former Deputy Governor is given a seven-day ultimatum from today to return the vehicles,” Commissioner Nehikhare stated. He emphasized the necessity of these vehicles for government operations and highlighted the urgency of their return.

The list of vehicles includes various models, such as the 2021 Toyota Landcruiser, Toyota Prado Jeep, Toyota Hilux Van, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Sienna, Jin Bei Hiase, Mitsubishi Pajero, and an armored Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep. Each vehicle is identified with specific VIN numbers and details about their condition, whether brand new or pre-owned.

Commissioner Nehikhare stressed the importance of cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure the timely return of these vehicles to their official use.

This demand follows the recent impeachment of Shaibu by the State House of Assembly in April, which ended a prolonged conflict with Governor Godwin Obaseki. The impeachment occurred during a plenary session in Benin City, following an investigation by a seven-man committee appointed by Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa. While the committee found Shaibu not guilty of perjury, it recommended his impeachment for disclosing government secrets.

The Assembly, with 18 out of 19 members voting in favor, approved the recommendation, exceeding the required two-thirds majority. Speaker Agbebaku subsequently instructed Clerk Yahaya Omogbai to deliver the impeachment notice to Governor Obaseki for final approval.

Shaibu, who has contested the impeachment in court, has denounced the move as an assault on democracy and has asserted his intention to seek the 2024 governorship under the PDP.