Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has openly shared his feelings of betrayal by Governor Godwin Obaseki, citing lack of support for his gubernatorial aspirations in the upcoming 2024 election.
In an interview on Arise TV, Shaibu expressed his initial reluctance to become deputy governor, stating that it took almost a month to convince him. He claimed that he accepted the position to add political value to Obaseki’s ticket, emphasizing his contribution to the governor’s political structure and finances.
“I feel betrayed by the governor. I feel very betrayed…
‘The heart of man is desperately wicked.’ When I see what the governor is doing, the verse now makes meaning to me,” Shaibu revealed during the interview.
He highlighted the significant role he played in Obaseki’s election campaigns, providing vehicles and financial support, contributing both in naira and dollars. Shaibu felt hurt and betrayed, citing the loss of political capital and financial investments made to support Obaseki.
“I supported the second term bid of the governor with my finances. Including how we got the ticket of the PDP, I contributed financially, both in naira and in dollars. If I say betrayal, it’s an understatement. I feel very hurt and betrayed,” he stated.
The strained relationship between Shaibu and Obaseki has been evident, with Shaibu previously seeking legal intervention to prevent impeachment. Although he withdrew the case, tension escalated when Shaibu was relocated to an office outside the Government House.
Shaibu, a former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students and a winner of the 2015 House of Representatives election, formally announced his candidacy for the Peoples Democratic Party ticket in the upcoming elections. He emphasized the need for a foundation laid in the past seven years to progress in Edo State.
The Independent National Electoral Commission announced that the Edo governorship election is scheduled for September 21, 2024.
The ongoing political rift within the state adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming electoral process.