By Chibuike Nwabuko
The Deputy Governor of Edo State and governorship aspirant under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Comrade Phillip Shaibu has said that he is deeply hurt by the betrayal of Governor Godwin Obaseki after sacrificing 20% of his political capital in Edo North just to ensure Obaseki won the election and re-election in the State.
Comrade Shaibu who made his feelings known when he featutured on “The Morning Show” program of Arise TV today, said for equity and fairness, PDP’s ticket should be given to him.
On how he feels about the not pleasant relationship between him and his boss Governor Godwin Obaseki, the Deputy Governor said: “The relationship between Obaseki and me in recent times gives credence to the scripture that says “the heart of man is desperately wicked”. I added value in terms of my political structure and my finances both in naira and dollars, I sacrificed 20% of my political capital in Edo North just to ensure Obaseki won the election and re-election in Edo State. Saying I’m betrayed by his antics today is an understatement, I’m deeply hurt.
In his response as to who is the best candidate to fly the flag of the party in the state, the Deputy Governor said:
“Edo State does not need another experiment like we have with Obaseki, we need someone who has experience and is close to the people and understands their needs.”
Political Analyst, Comrade Edwin Enenta who was asked to advice Philip Shaibu on what to do in view of the lack of support by Governor Obaseki to his governorship ambition, said Phillip Shaibu has gone too far that returning is as dangerous as going forward, therefore he should be firm and pursue his ambition to a logical conclusion regardless of what the outcome will be. By contesting the election alone, he would have made a statement. Even if he looses the election, he can claim he was rigged out because nobody gave him chance and the people are seeing the battle he is fighting.
He said Shaibu is a young man and will be governor of Edo state one day, adding that it is only a matter of time. It might not be in 2024 but circumstances may throw up something and people will say he is the right man, he will one day be called upon to come and run.