Reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has announced a N50 billion defamation and contempt of court lawsuit against the Edo State Government, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Nehikhare, and Special Adviser on Media Project Crusoe Osagie.

This development follows his recent reinstatement by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Speaking to the press, Shaibu emphasized that the court’s decision to reinstate him was declarative and must be respected. He stressed that the judgement perpetually restrains the state government and its agents from obstructing him from fulfilling his duties as the deputy governor.

“The court judgement reinstating me is declarative and must be enforced before any appeal can be considered. The stay of execution filed by the state cannot proceed until the judgement is executed,” Shaibu stated.

Shaibu criticized Nehikhare and Osagie for insisting on his impeachment, accusing them of not properly reviewing the court’s decision before making public statements. He further disclosed that he has already initiated legal action against Governor Godwin Obaseki, Nehikhare, and Osagie for defamation, with legal papers to be served next week.

In addition to the legal battle, Shaibu alleged that the recent gun attack on his convoy was an assassination attempt orchestrated by Governor Obaseki. He denied accusations that he staged the attack, which resulted in the death of Inspector Akor Onuh at Benin Airport’s exit.

“I was shocked by the attack. For the past year, I have avoided protests to prevent confrontation with the state government and their agents. Thursday’s attack was a planned assassination attempt by the state governor. They accused me of planning the attack, but I arrived peacefully from Abuja. Why were armed thugs lying in wait for me? Were they expecting someone else?”

Shaibu concluded by reiterating his commitment to performing his duties and serving the people of Edo State despite the ongoing challenges.