The Edo State government has announced the dissolution of the media team affiliated with Deputy Governor Phillip Shaibu, citing the ongoing crisis between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy. The decision was conveyed in a statement issued by Chris Osa Nehikhare, the Honourable Commissioner for Communication and Orientation. The statement also revealed that the Ministry of Communication and Orientation has been tasked with taking over responsibilities related to the deputy governor’s media affairs.
The official statement, titled “Edo Govt Disbands Deputy Governor’s Media Crew, Directs Ministry of Communication and Orientation to Step In,” outlined the decision to disband the media team attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor. Instead, the deputy governor has been instructed to collaborate with the Ministry of Communication and Orientation to arrange media coverage for his office’s activities.
This development stems from an unfortunate incident that occurred during the recent colloquium commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum celebration. The event, held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and Soundstage, was marred by an incident involving journalists who claimed to be part of the deputy governor’s media crew. These individuals attempted to enter the hall where the governor and other dignitaries were seated, disrupting the established media coverage protocol.
The statement lamented the breach of protocol and the orchestrated disruption, terming it a regrettable and highly undesirable occurrence. The incident cast a shadow over the colloquium, reflecting the tensions that appear to have taken root within the political landscape of Edo State.
As the state government takes steps to address the situation, the public’s attention remains on the ongoing political dynamics and the measures put in place to restore order and transparency in the state’s administration.
