The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, revealed that he would have considered dropping his governorship ambitions if Governor Godwin Obaseki had approached him respectfully. In a stark assessment, Shaibu labeled Obaseki as a dictator, asserting that the governor’s threats to ruin his political career galvanized him to pursue his aspirations even more vigorously.
Speaking about his candidacy, Shaibu claimed he won the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party’s primary with 381 delegates, disputing claims that he was excluded from the February 22 event at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
Recently defecting to the All Progressives Congress, Shaibu made these comments during a courtesy visit to the APC National Working Committee in Abuja. He expressed feelings of betrayal from Obaseki, despite years of loyalty and support.
Shaibu stated, “The truth is that the issues were all political. I declared to contest for the governor of Edo State. That is where the fight started.” He elaborated on his commitment to internal democracy, emphasizing the need for leaders to foster collaboration rather than resort to dictatorial tactics.
He clarified that the allegations of him absconding with 22 official vehicles following his impeachment were unfounded. Shaibu noted that only one official vehicle was purchased during their administration. “Everything that I used was either inherited from my previous roles or not procured with official funds,” he stressed.
Addressing claims of gross misconduct which led to his impeachment, Shaibu insisted that he had executed his duties diligently and acted in the best interest of Edo State. He emphasized that the court has validated his stance through favorable rulings.
When questioned about the possibility of reconciling with Obaseki, Shaibu acknowledged the complexity of their relationship and affirmed, “The only person that is perfect is the Almighty God.” He reiterated his commitment to the development of Edo State, stating, “I gave everything for his success because it is about the state.”
