Edo Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, Disassociates Himself from Obaseki’s Inauguration of Civil Service Commission

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has publicly distanced himself from the recent inauguration of the new Chairman and Members of the Edo State Civil Service Commission by Governor Godwin Obaseki, just 27 days before the administration’s tenure ends.

In a statement shared on social media, Shaibu criticized the governor’s decision, describing it as shocking and ill-timed. He expressed concern that Governor Obaseki, who failed to effectively utilize the previous Civil Service Commission, is now inaugurating a new one. Shaibu pointed out that private consultants had been handling responsibilities typically overseen by the Commission, such as appointments into the state civil and public service.

Shaibu further raised alarm over the qualifications of the individual appointed as Chairman of the Commission, stating that the person lacks the necessary credentials for the role. “This raises serious questions about the integrity of the process,” he said.

The Deputy Governor also accused Obaseki of making secret appointments to the state civil and public service after the last election, with reports of backdated appointments. He warned those appointed to be cautious, labeling the appointments as potential traps.

Shaibu called for transparency, due process, and good governance, urging the people of Edo State to be aware of the situation. He cautioned the appointees, referencing a previous legal issue involving the Okuogbellagbe of Okpella, and urged stakeholders to prioritize legality and accountability.