In a decisive move, Edo State’s Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has officially announced his bid for the upcoming state governorship election in 2024. The fervent declaration was made public during a televised address on Monday morning, marking a significant development in the state’s political landscape. Shaibu, who has held the position of deputy governor since 2016, revealed his intent to vie for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket in the forthcoming party primaries. His formal announcement, met with anticipation, gathered momentum as he launched his campaign office in Benin City, the state capital. The event drew a substantial gathering of ardent party supporters bedecked in distinctive campaign regalia. Addressing the crowd, Shaibu emphasized the culmination of extensive consultations with the people, affirming their resounding call for his gubernatorial candidacy. “After all the consultation we have made, we needed to now make the answer to our consultation known to our people. And the answer is clear: they have asked me to run,” stated Shaibu with conviction. Highlighting his commitment to the state’s progress, the 53-year-old politician pledged to dedicate himself to Edo State’s development, vowing to steer the South-South region towards greatness. Shaibu, a native of the Edo North Senatorial District, shares geographical roots with ex-governor and current lawmaker representing the district in the 10th National Assembly, Adams Oshiomhole. The political landscape saw Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki’s victory in the last election, triumphing over Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite strong backing for Ize-Iyamu from Oshiomhole.
With Shaibu’s official declaration, the stage is set for an engaging and potentially pivotal contest in the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election, elevating expectations and stirring anticipation among the populace.
