During the week, the Edo State Government made an announcement stating that the media team of the Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has been disbanded and the Ministry of Communication and Orientation will now take over their responsibilities.

This decision came after the Deputy Governor’s media team was denied access to the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, where the 60 years Midwest Referendum and 32 years creation of Edo State anniversary were taking place.

As a result, the Deputy Governor left the venue in response to this incident.

The state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, clarified in a statement that this directive was issued due to the unfortunate incident that occurred during the colloquium held to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub.

The statement further mentioned that from now on, the Deputy Governor should request the Ministry of Communication to cover its events.

“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 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 said.