Protest Erupts in Edo as Residents Rally Against Impeachment of Deputy Governor

In a show of solidarity, indigenes and residents of Edo North Senatorial District took to the streets to protest against the proposed impeachment of Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.

The discontent stems from Shaibu’s fallout with Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2023, triggered by his intention to contest for the governorship of Edo State.

The tension escalated during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary election in February, where Shaibu organized a parallel poll at his residence, declaring himself the winner. However, Asue Ighodalo emerged as the official winner of the main PDP primary election in Edo State.

Last week, the Edo State House of Assembly issued an impeachment notice to Shaibu, sparking outrage among the protesters who took to the streets chanting solidarity songs.

Placards with inscriptions such as “No to impeachment of Edo deputy governor”, “Peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved by understanding”, “Give peace a chance”, “We choose peace against impeachment”, and “Edo people reject impeachment of the Deputy Governor”.

The protesters, organized under the banner of Edo North PDP Rescue Movement (ENREM), gathered at the Jattu junction in Etsako West Local Government before marching through major streets in the communities.

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Festus Owu, the leader of the protest, called on Edo lawmakers to focus on legislative initiatives benefiting the citizens rather than pursuing what they deemed a fruitless impeachment venture.

The group urged Governor Obaseki to intervene and halt any impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, emphasising the importance of prioritizing peace for the well-being of Edo State residents.