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APC’s Philip Shauib Criticizes President Tinubu Over State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers

Published

3 days ago

Mar 20, 2025.

Shaibu Condemns Federal Actions: Former Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu criticized President Tinubu and AGF Lateef Fagbemi, calling the attempt to remove Rivers Governor Fubara unconstitutional.
Edo APC vs. Presidency Tensions Grow: This marks the second time in weeks that Edo APC leaders have openly challenged the federal government, deepening divisions within the party.
Presidency Aware, Response Pending: Sources confirm the Presidency is aware of Shaibu’s comments, but no official response has been issued yet.

A recently leaked video has surfaced, featuring former Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu condemning President Bola Tinubu and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi regarding the escalating political unrest in Rivers State. The footage has intensified tensions between Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration and the Presidency, further straining their relationship.

In the video, Shaibu, seated next to the Secretary of Akoko Edo Local Government Area, strongly criticizes the federal government’s approach to the crisis and opposes efforts to unseat Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

“It is both illegal and unconstitutional to remove an elected governor. If necessary, you can impose a state of emergency or appoint a sole administrator, but you cannot dismiss a democratically elected official. Governor Fubara remains in office, even if only symbolically,” Shaibu asserted.

His remarks come at a delicate time for Okpebholo’s government, which is already facing backlash from the federal authorities. This is the second occasion in recent weeks where high-ranking members of the Edo APC have publicly questioned decisions made by the President and the Attorney General.

FURTHER READING

The conflict initially began when Governor Okpebholo attempted to suspend local government chairmen across Edo State, directly defying a Supreme Court ruling. In response, the Attorney General issued a national directive prohibiting such actions. Despite the warning, Okpebholo proceeded, provoking a harsh reaction from the Presidency.Philip Shauib

Insiders reveal that Tinubu and Fagbemi interpreted these moves, along with the media campaign defending the suspensions, as a deliberate act of defiance.

Shaibu’s recent remarks escalate the situation, as he privately described the President’s handling of the matter as unlawful and criticized the Attorney General’s legal interpretations. The video raises concerns about Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to the APC-led federal government and his alignment with the President’s political direction.

Sources within the Presidency acknowledged awareness of Shaibu’s comments late Wednesday, although there is no clear indication of how President Tinubu plans to respond.

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