Philip Shaibu officially joins APC, dumps PDP

Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and rejoined the All Progressives Congress (APC). Shaibu made the announcement on Saturday in Benin City, the state capital.

This move comes less than 24 hours after Shaibu declared that his allegiance had shifted from the PDP and he was effectively an “unofficial member” of the APC. He rejoined the APC alongside key members of the Dan Orbih-led Legacy Group from the PDP.

“It is a triumphant homecoming for me as I officially return to the APC, the party where I am accepted, valued, and welcomed with open arms,” Shaibu said. “The APC holds a special place in my heart, and I have shared countless memories here.”

Shaibu expressed gratitude for the support he received and his excitement to reunite with his political family. “On behalf of the Legacy Group, I announce our movement to the APC. We are here to add value to the party and take back our state. Our actions will speak louder than words. We are ready to move forward,” he added.

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He pledged support for the APC governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo, and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa, stating, “We are not troublemakers, but if trouble comes, we will face it and move on.”

Shaibu’s departure from the PDP follows a recent court ruling. On Wednesday, James Omotosho, a federal high court judge in Abuja, nullified Shaibu’s removal as deputy governor, declaring it unlawful and politically motivated.

The court reinstated Shaibu and ordered the Inspector-General of Police to restore his security details.

Prior to the court’s decision, on April 8, Governor Godwin Obaseki had announced Omobayo Godwins as his deputy, shortly after Shaibu’s impeachment.

Following his reinstatement, Shaibu made new appointments, including a chief press secretary and chief of staff, which the Edo State government has criticized as “provocative.”