Edo Deputy Governor Disowns Obaseki’s Last-Minute Appointments

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has publicly disassociated himself and his office from Governor Godwin Obaseki’s recent inauguration of new Chairman and Members of the Edo State Civil Service Commission.

Obaseki had on Monday inaugurated five new members of the state’s Civil Service Commission, following their screening and confirmation by the Edo State House of Assembly.

The members of the Commission include Iguodala Aluyi who serves as Chairman, with Ehi Obaseki, Gilbert Adegboyega, Julie Olatunji, and Margaret Ohiowele as members.

But, with barely 27 days left in their tenure, Shaibu, in a statement he personally signed, on Wednesday, said he finds it appalling that Obaseki made such fresh moves, especially after failing to utilize the last Civil Service Commission.

The deputy governor revealed that private consultants have been handling activities that should fall under the Commission’s purview, such as appointments into the state’s civil and public service.

He claimed that the individual screened by the Edo State House of Assembly for the Chairman position lacks the basic qualifications and does not meet the criteria for the role, while questioning the integrity of the process.

Shaibu also condemned Obaseki’s alleged “clandestine appointments into the state civil and public service, made hastily after the last election, with reports indicating backdated appointments.”

He warned the purported appointees to exercise extreme caution, noting that these appointments undermine due process, transparency, and good governance.

Shaibu, however, reiterated his commitment to upholding the law and protecting Edo State’s interest until the last day in office.

The deputy governor, therefore, urged all stakeholders to reconsider their positions and uphold legality and accountability in their dealings.