Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has affirmed his commitment to hand over power to the newly elected governor, Monday Okpebholo, regardless of whether outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki is present. This assurance from Shaibu comes amidst rumors suggesting Obaseki’s absence from the state days before the official transition.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program, Shaibu expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to hand over power, emphasizing that protocol would proceed as planned. “Whether [Governor Obaseki] is there or not, I am ready to hand over,” Shaibu stated.
Shaibu also responded to allegations regarding Obaseki’s rumored disappearance ahead of the handover. The outgoing governor’s team has denied claims that he left the state to evade possible arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, Shaibu admitted he hasn’t seen or communicated with Obaseki in four days.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, secured victory in the September 2024 Edo State governorship election, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo. The official transition of power marks the end of Obaseki’s tenure as governor.
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