In a surprising turn of events, Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has voiced his feelings of betrayal by his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, as he seeks support for his candidacy in the upcoming 2024 governorship election. Shaibu, who played a crucial role in Obaseki’s administration, claimed that despite contributing significantly in terms of political structure and finances, he is dismayed to find Obaseki endorsing an outsider.
In an exclusive interview with Arise TV on Wednesday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant revealed that he was initially reluctant to take on the role of deputy governor but was persuaded to add value to Obaseki’s political ticket. He emphasized the importance of having a young and vibrant politician with a track record of electoral success.
Expressing his sense of betrayal, Shaibu disclosed, “I feel betrayed by the governor. I feel very betrayed.” He went on to highlight the sacrifices he made, including the use of his own vehicles for the 2016 campaign and financial contributions to secure the PDP ticket for Obaseki’s second term.
Shaibu, who hails from Edo North Senatorial District, has been engaged in a public dispute with Obaseki over his political ambitions. The deputy governor’s announcement of his intention to contest the PDP ticket adds another layer of complexity to the evolving political landscape in Edo State.
Tensions between Shaibu and Obaseki escalated earlier when the deputy governor filed a case in an Abuja High Court seeking to prevent his impeachment. Although he later withdrew the case, the strained relationship was further evident when Shaibu was relocated to an office outside the Government House.
As the 2024 governorship election approaches, political dynamics in Edo State continue to unfold, with Shaibu’s aspirations adding a new dimension to the state’s political narrative.