Obaseki’s deputy joins gubernatorial race
Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, plans to declare his intention to run for the 2024 Edo State governorship election next week. This ambition has caused tension with Governor Godwin Obaseki, who reportedly opposes Shaibu succeeding him.
During the conflict, Shaibu went to an Abuja High Court to prevent his impeachment, later withdrawing the case with the help of interveners. Despite this, Shaibu remains isolated and operates from an office outside the Government House in Benin’s GRA.
Shaibu has been actively consulting with politicians and media about his intention. Recently, he met with journalists in Abuja, and another meeting is scheduled for Tuesday in Lagos.
A close aide stated that Shaibu is set to officially declare his intention next week, having secured a campaign office along Airport Road and initiated consultations. He emphasized Shaibu’s endorsement by his kinsmen and meetings with various groups.
In a conversation with Abuja journalists, Shaibu expressed his desire to succeed Obaseki, citing the urgent need for practical governance in Edo State. He emphasized the importance of competence and experience, questioning the wisdom of experimenting with a new leader who might spend years learning on the job and potentially engaging in corruption.
Credit X: Punchnews