Shaibu tackles Obaseki over plans to return Edo vigilantes

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has challenged Governor Godwin Obaseki’s plan to reinstate the suspended Edo State Security Network following the governorship election on September 21. Shaibu expressed concerns that the governor’s actions could lead to unrest in the state before his term ends on November 12.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday after a private meeting with Commissioner of Police Nemo Edwin-Iwo, Shaibu criticized Obaseki’s decision to appoint a traditional ruler for Okpella in Etsako East, an action that has reportedly resulted in fatalities.

After the October State Security Council meeting, Governor Obaseki announced that the vigilante group would be reinstated, citing an expected increase in crime and accidents during the “ember” months as a primary reason.

Shaibu responded, stating, “I needed to meet with the Commissioner of Police to clarify that the Edo vigilante should not resume operations. The current configuration of the vigilante is likely to incite violence against political opponents.”

He added, “As the Deputy Governor, I have access to both official and unofficial security reports, and I know that the governor and his team intend to bring back the vigilante to create discord in the state and target APC members who are protesting.”

Shaibu emphasized the right of citizens to protest, stating, “Both the PDP and APC have the right to safeguard their interests, as seen during the protests at the INEC office. However, the governor seems intent on using the vigilante to intimidate others.”

He further urged the police to focus on disarming these vigilantes, noting, “The Nigerian police are doing well, with personnel and equipment still available for post-election security. So why is the governor rushing to reinstate the vigilantes?”

Shaibu also criticized the governor’s recent decisions, remarking, “With just four weeks left in office, he’s assigning positions to traditional rulers. Why has he not appointed the Okueokulagbe of Okpella in the past five years? I’ve been informed that there were fatalities on Monday due to this recent decision.”

He concluded, pointing out that the previous Okueokulagbe passed away over five years ago, and despite the council providing names for appointment, the governor has avoided making a decision to prevent further conflict.