PDP Dismisses Shaibu’s Defection to APC, Ganduje Confident of Edo Victory

The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) saw a significant increase in membership on Saturday as the reinstated Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, along with prominent members and their supporters, left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The defection occurred in Benin during the inauguration of the National Campaign Council by APC National Chairman, Abdulahi Ganduje, ending months of speculation about Shaibu’s future in the PDP.

Shaibu, who had a fallout with Governor Godwin Obaseki over his ambition to succeed him, was impeached after losing to Asue Ighodalo in the PDP primary. However, he was reinstated by the Abuja High Court on Wednesday, exacerbating tensions between him and Obaseki.

Speaking at the event, Shaibu announced his return to the APC, stating, “On behalf of the Legacy Group, I announce our movement to the APC. We have come to add value to the party.”

Ganduje, while inaugurating the National Campaign Council for the September 21 governorship election, welcomed the defectors. He claimed that Shaibu’s presence meant that the APC now had 50 percent of Edo State’s support and promised a grand rally in Benin, to be attended by President Bola Tinubu.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, criticized the current administration for not sustaining the development legacy of his tenure and praised APC governorship candidate Monday Okpebholo’s empathy and contributions to security in Esan land.

Meanwhile, Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP in Edo State, downplayed the impact of Shaibu’s departure, stating that more people were joining the PDP than leaving.

“We are good. People have been calling me since he left to say they want to join our party,” Aziegbemi said.