**Benin City** – The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, defied warnings from the state government as he inspected various ongoing projects on Monday. These included the multi-billion naira Radisson Blu hotel, the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA), and the reconstruction of Okada Avenue and parts of Central Road. Shaibu asserted that he would continue to fulfill his duties in that capacity.
In response, the state government issued a statement cautioning Shaibu against actions that could disrupt governance processes, urging him to adhere to existing laws.
During his site visit to MOWAA, Shaibu noted that, according to the contractor, work was approximately 80% complete. However, he expressed concerns about the project’s location, suggesting it should have been a Central Hospital rather than a museum. At the Radisson site, he remarked on the satisfactory scope of work, emphasizing the need to ensure that all significant projects initiated by the outgoing administration were progressing well.
Regarding his status as Deputy Governor, which Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration has disputed, Shaibu remarked, “We should not respond to people in exile who release press releases because we are here. Anyone who wants to release a press statement should come here and not be in exile.” He highlighted that he had resumed his duties and that discussions about his reinstatement should be behind them.
Shaibu stressed the constitutional nature of his office, stating, “The office of the Deputy Governor is not an office under Obaseki. It is an office created by the Constitution.” He indicated plans to inspect various projects across Edo State, emphasizing his commitment to his role.
In contrast, the Special Adviser on Media Projects to Obaseki, Crusoe Osagie, stated that Shaibu, like any private citizen, could tour the state’s projects but implied that the Deputy Governor’s actions might not align with the current administration’s directives.
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