Obaseki Explains Decision Not to Back Shaibu as Successor in Edo

Edo Governor Explains Decision Not to Support Former Deputy’s Ambition

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has clarified his stance on not endorsing his former deputy, Philip Shaibu, to succeed him, citing concerns for the state’s welfare.

Obaseki emphasized that supporting Shaibu’s gubernatorial bid posed risks due to unfavorable political dynamics in the state. He addressed the rift between them during the Peoples Democratic Party primary election on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

The fallout led Shaibu to conduct a separate primary, declaring himself a candidate, but the party invalidated his candidacy. Consequently, facing off with Obaseki led to Shaibu’s impeachment by the state House of Assembly.

Obaseki defended his decision, stating, “I couldn’t risk supporting his ambition because I must safeguard the interests of the Edo people.”

Shaibu, reacting to his impeachment, denounced it as an assault on democracy. In a social media video, he asserted, “This isn’t just about me but an attack on democracy. It’s a perilous slide into dictatorship, threatening the foundation of our democracy. This impeachment stemmed from my ambition to contest the 2024 Edo State governorship under the PDP, a legitimate right for all Nigerian citizens.”