He was Outside, Waiting For Philip Shaibu’s Arrival. I Didn’t Know That He Would Lose His Life-Staff

A police officer named Okon, who was assigned to protect the All Progressives Congress candidate, Monday Okpebholo, was fatally attacked by a mob in Benin. The incident occurred while Okon was escorting his principal, Okpebholo, and Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of the state, through the city after leaving the Benin Airport.

According to an airport staff member who wished to remain anonymous, a policeman was fatally shot on Thursday. The staff member reported witnessing the policeman waiting outside the VIP lounge, awaiting the arrival of Philip Shaibu. The staff member stated that they had no prior knowledge of the impending danger. As the convoy departed the airport, armed gunmen opened fire on the motorcade, resulting in the policeman’s death. The staff member’s account provides a firsthand perspective on the tragic events that unfolded.

As reported by The Punch News on Thursday, the airport staff said, “When the plane landed, the way the police officers acted around Shaibu showed that something terrible was going to happen. I saw the policeman who was killed. He was outside the VIP lounge, waiting for Shaibu’s arrival. I didn’t know that he would lose his life. When the convoy left the airport, armed gunmen shot at the motorcade, which led to the death of the policeman.”

According to a statement issued by Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, the incident was allegedly caused by Philip Shaibu. He said, “The Edo State Government has observed the level of wanton destruction perpetrated by thugs and elements working in connivance with former Deputy Governor of the State, Philip Shaibu, in the guise of purportedly enforcing a judgment reinstating him in office. Shaibu led thugs through the Airport Road axis of Benin City, attacking innocent citizens and unleashing mayhem on private citizens who are going about their lawful businesses.”