In a recent TVC program on Monday evening, Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, voiced his confidence in securing victory in the upcoming governorship election. He boldly declared his intent to defeat the favored candidate of Governor Godwin Obaseki.
This announcement comes just a day after Shaibu formally expressed his ambition to vie for the Peoples Democratic Party ticket in the impending party primaries. In tandem with his declaration, the deputy governor inaugurated his campaign office in Benin City, the state capital, attracting a substantial turnout of party supporters.
Shaibu emphasized his commitment to representing the wishes of the people, stating, “Definitely, I’ll defeat the so-called candidate of the governor, not because I have the power, but because Edo people want their own and I am their own. Edo people do not want importation; they want their own.”
Highlighting tensions within the ruling party, Shaibu remarked on his strained relationship with Governor Obaseki, attributing it to interference from certain individuals with governance interests. He clarified, “He is managing in his own style and the way he feels he can manage it. I am also managing it the way I feel I can manage it.”
Addressing challenges he has faced, Shaibu noted, “When I said I was pressed, but not distressed, I understand the kind of intimidation and oppression I have gone through,” revealing the complexities surrounding his governorship aspirations.
