In a surprising turn of events, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has voiced his feelings of betrayal by his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, for not endorsing his candidacy in the upcoming 2024 governorship election. Shaibu, who claimed to have been persuaded to take on the role of deputy governor, asserted that he contributed significantly to Obaseki’s government in terms of political structure and financial support.
During an interview on Arise TV, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant expressed his disappointment that Governor Obaseki was backing an outsider for the upcoming election, without specifying the individual in question.
Shaibu explained the circumstances surrounding his decision to become deputy governor, stating, “I accepted to add value to the ticket of Obaseki because Obaseki was not known, and he was not one of the politicians. They needed a young, vibrant politician that has won election before and that can add political value to the ticket.”
Feeling betrayed, Shaibu disclosed, “I feel betrayed by the governor. I feel very betrayed.” He highlighted the significant contributions he made, including the use of his vehicles for the 2016 campaign and financial support for Obaseki’s second term bid.
Despite the deputy governor’s efforts, tension has been escalating between him and Governor Obaseki, culminating in Shaibu’s relocation to an office outside the Government House.
Shaibu, who hails from Edo North Senatorial District, the same district as the ex-governor Adams Oshiomhole, has been embroiled in a political battle with his principal over his political aspirations. The deputy governor had even sought legal intervention to prevent impeachment, though he later withdrew the case.
In his formal announcement to compete for the PDP ticket in the party primaries scheduled for November 2023, Shaibu emphasized his role in working closely with Governor Obaseki in the last seven years to lay a solid foundation for progress in Edo State.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced that the Edo governorship election is slated for September 21, 2024, setting the stage for a keenly watched political contest in the state.
