In a significant move that adds fuel to the political landscape in Edo State, Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu officially threw his hat into the ring for the 2024 gubernatorial election. After months of speculation and tension, Shaibu, a seasoned politician who has served as deputy governor since 2016, publicly announced his candidacy on Monday.
In a prerecorded speech broadcast to the public, Shaibu declared his intention to contest for the state’s top position under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Following this announcement, he inaugurated his campaign office in the state capital, Benin City.
The 53-year-old politician underscored his unwavering commitment to the state’s development and prosperity, expressing a strong determination to restore greatness to the South-South region. Despite political discord with his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, over his political ambitions, Shaibu asserted his resilience in the face of persecution.
Hailing from the Edo North Senatorial District, the same district as former governor Adams Oshiomhole, Shaibu’s political journey has been closely tied to Obaseki’s. Both were once allies of Oshiomhole, but their association crumbled in the lead-up to the 2020 governorship election. Oshiomhole faced accusations of ‘godfatherism,’ which he vehemently denied.
Obaseki and Shaibu successfully navigated their re-election, overcoming opposition from Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who enjoyed support from Oshiomhole and other influential APC figures, including former Lagos State governor, Bola Tinubu. The upcoming gubernatorial race is expected to be closely watched, given the political dynamics and the intriguing history between Shaibu and Obaseki.
