Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, has accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of dictatorial behavior, which he claims has strengthened his resolve to pursue his governorship ambition.
Shaibu, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), made these allegations during a courtesy visit to the APC National Working Committee in Abuja on Thursday.
Shaibu expressed that if Obaseki had approached him reasonably, he would have considered stepping down from his ambition. Instead, he feels betrayed despite his loyalty and sacrifices to the governor.
“If the governor had shown leadership, maybe I wouldn’t have contested because I am not a desperate person,” Shaibu stated.
READ ALSO: Ex- Commissioner Efe Stewart denies involvement in attack on Shaibu’s convoy
He recounted winning the Edo State PDP governorship primary with 381 delegates but being shut out of the venue. Two court judgments have since vindicated him, declaring his delegates authentic.
Shaibu emphasized his commitment to internal democracy and his ambition to fix the state, asserting he would have supported another candidate if they shared his vision.
According to Shaibu, Obaseki’s behavior led to their fallout, and he is determined to prevent dictatorship from derailing democracy in Edo State. “The governor wanted to behave like a military dictator. And for me, we fought. I have captained people that have fought for this democracy.
“I started from the youth wing. I am sure I am one of the top people you will mention for this democracy that we now have. And for me, I cannot watch this democracy be derailed and allow dictatorship to take control,” he declared.
Shaibu’s statements highlight the ongoing political tension in Edo State as he reaffirms his commitment to ensuring internal democracy and preventing dictatorship from undermining the democratic process.