John Asekhauno, a prominent figure within the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has put forth allegations suggesting a potential impeachment plot against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Asekhauno denounced what he claims to be instances of harassment directed at Shaibu by his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki, during recent state functions.

Asekhauno contends that these reported incidents of harassment constitute a direct challenge to democratic principles, an attack on political legitimacy, and a serious violation of the rights belonging to an elected official.

Regarding the assertion made by Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, that the deputy governor has shown reluctance to attend state functions, Asekhauno highlighted that, in fact, Shaibu had taken his seat an hour prior to Governor Obaseki's arrival.

Presenting himself as an eyewitness, Asekhauno recounted that Shaibu, upon realizing his media aides were absent from the event, sought to clarify the situation.

Upon reaching the venue's entrance, Asekhauno discovered that all of Shaibu's media aides were outside. They were reportedly denied entry by the governor's security personnel, who claimed they lacked the necessary accreditation to cover the event as part of the media team.

The PDP chieftain said, “I suspect that all the efforts by Philip Shaibu to get his media aides into the hall, which the security details of the governor rebuffed, may have been the reason he stormed out of the venue as he felt he was not needed there. So, the narrative by the Commissioner that the deputy governor does not like attending state functions is an attempt to malign him, and the stoppage of his media aides may have been orchestrated to get the Deputy Governor to react to gather impeachment offenses against him.”

Reflecting on the events of Sunday, August 27th, where a widely circulated photograph showed a security detail of Governor Obaseki preventing the deputy governor from greeting him at an interdenominational service in the Festival Hall of the Government House, the PDP leader commented that such actions not only undermine the dignity of those involved but also cast a negative pall over efforts to foster unity in Edo State. He emphasized that the people of Edo deserve leaders who prioritize citizens' well-being over personal conflicts.

Asekhauno urged Governor Obaseki to uphold the tenets of democratic governance and set an exemplary standard. He underscored that political disagreements should be resolved through productive discussions rather than resorting to power dynamics or intimidation.

The PDP figure appealed to all stakeholders to collaborate in cultivating an inclusive and harmonious political atmosphere, benefiting all residents of Edo.

Furthermore, Asekhauno insisted on a thorough investigation into the alleged incident, ensuring appropriate consequences for those responsible for the reported harassment.

He emphasized the importance of transparent and accountable governance, urging the state's leadership to focus on fulfilling their pledges to the electorate instead of engaging in political hostilities.