Edo PDP leaders backs Obaseki’s choice of successor

Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo have expressed satisfaction with the decision of Governor Godwin Obaseki to back a candidate from Edo Central Senatorial District to emerge as the next governor of the state.

In a communique issued after a meeting on Sunday in Igueben LGA of the state, the party leaders, who are from Edo central senatorial district, also expressed dismay at the “deteriorating relationship” between Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu.

In attendance were Tony Aziegbemi, Edo PDP state chairman; Tom Ikimi, former chairman, PDP board of trustees (BOT); Clifford Odia, former Edo central senator; Sergius Ogun and Joe Edionwele, two former House of Representatives members, among others.

“The motion was unanimously passed by all the leaders in attendance on behalf of the party in Esanland,” the communique reads.

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“The meeting noted with satisfaction the speedy and effective progress being made on the peace and reconciliation efforts.

“However, the deteriorating relationship between our Governor, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy Rt Hon Philip Shaibu, was noted with utmost dismay.

“The reason for this is our strong belief that the strongest consideration for making the choice is equity in addition to other factors related to competence and individual acceptability. From our interactions with our brothers from Edo South and Edo North, there is already a consensus that the next governor will emanate from Edo Central Senatorial District.

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“Principally because it is on record that Edo Central has not legally produced a governor for our dear state since the inception of this democratic dispensation in 1999.

“Besides, we believe that the process of making such a choice can be achieved by the leadership of the party in a cordial and reasonable atmosphere rather than resorting to intimidation and blackmail.

“Moreover, we condemn in very strong terms, the act of resorting to court without exhausting the options provided in our party constitution for dispute settlement. In any case, the governor has confirmed that he has made no move to impeach his deputy and we believe him.

“We, therefore, urge the deputy governor to withdraw his suit forthwith and seek a political solution to the problem with his principal.”