The Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, as the duo’s fight entered a new gear.
Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, announced this in a statement on Monday.
He directed the deputy governor to henceforth request the Ministry of Communication and Orientation for media coverage of activities of his office.
“Edo State Government has disbanded the media crew attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor, with a directive to the Deputy Governor to henceforth request the Ministry of Communication and Orientation for media coverage of activities of his office.
“This directive followed the ugly and unfortunate incident that happened during the colloquium held to mark the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum celebration held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and Soundstage, where some journalists, who claimed to be the media crew of the deputy governor attempted to force their way into the hall where the governor and other invited dignitaries were already seated.
“This act was contrary to the accredited protocol that had been established for the media coverage of the event. The orchestrated and stage-managed walkout and disruption is highly regrettable,” the statement read.
The governor and his deputy have been at daggers drawn over the latter’s ambition to succeed his principal.
Shuaibu’s media sack was preceeded by the refusal of operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to allow him access to Governor Godwin Obaseki.
He also staged a walkout at an event organised by the government after his aides were forced out of the hall.
