Edo Govt Blames Shaibu For Attack On Okpebholo’s Convoy

The Edo State Government on Friday blamed the reinstated deputy governor of the state, Philip Shaibu for being the mastermind behind the shooting incident along the airport road in Benin City.

On Thursday, Inspector Okon, a police officer attached to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was killed after gunmen attacked the convoy of Okpebholo and Shaibu on leaving the airport.

A day after, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, condemned the attack and accused Shaibu of being behind the incident.

Nehikhare accused the impeached deputy governor of organising thugs, saying Shaibu remains impeached as the state government is challenging the verdict of the appellate court that reinstated him.

“With the disappointment by this development, Shaibu disregarded the advice and warnings from the Commissioner of Police and exited the airport precincts into the waiting crowd of thugs who then moved with him into the City, shooting sporadically and unleashing mayhem on innocent citizens, who were minding their lawful businesses,” the statement read.

“This mindless shooting and breakdown of law and order resulted in the wanton destruction of property, infliction of various degrees of injuries on passersby and security operatives and the loss of the life of a Policeman.

“Following the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, which faulted the impeachment of the former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government immediately filed a notice of appeal and stay of execution on the judgement, as it is the government’s right. This we have since communicated to the relevant authorities, including the Police, by the law.”
-Channels