Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo state, has made a bold claim that Asue Ighodalo, the PDP governorship candidate in Edo, was not known in his own village before he entered the race for the governorship. Shaibu pointed out that Ighodalo had little recognition in his home community until his political ambitions became clear. He further criticized Ighodalo's influence in the state as limited, stating that his previous role in the Obaseki administration had not left a lasting impression.
Shaibu expressed his full confidence that Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, will emerge victorious in the forthcoming Edo state governorship election. According to Shaibu, Okpebholo has gained significant support from the electorate, who view him as a candidate capable of uniting the state and fostering development.
In an appearance on TVC news Tuesday night, Shaibu emphasized the unity within the APC and the electorate’s decision to rally behind Okpebholo, stating that the people are united in their desire for a governor who can bring progress and harmony to the state.
Shaibu made it clear that the APC has a strong and established structure within Edo state, having attracted former members of the PDP who defected due to internal divisions allegedly caused by Governor Godwin Obaseki. He argued that these defectors, combined with the original APC members, now form a formidable political force that will lead to Okpebholo’s success in the election.
According to Shaibu, Governor Obaseki’s tenure has been marked by a division within the PDP, leading to an exodus of members from the party. Shaibu noted that these former PDP members, including himself, have found a new home in the APC, uniting the political structures of both parties in Edo state under the banner of the APC.
Shaibu’s confidence in APC’s success was further underscored by his comments on the importance of a governor who understands the people and their needs. He believes that the people of Edo no longer want a “packaged” governor, referring to Obaseki, who was seen as a technocrat. Instead, Shaibu stated, they want someone like Okpebholo, who is viewed as a "homeboy," a natural and organic leader who can truly represent the people.
In his criticism of Ighodalo, Shaibu claimed that despite his current role as an economic adviser in the Obaseki administration, Ighodalo had not made a significant impact in the state, and his candidacy has not resonated with the people of Edo. Shaibu further mocked Ighodalo’s campaign, noting that during one of his visits to his village, an interpreter was required to communicate with the people, underscoring Ighodalo’s lack of connection with his own community.
As the Edo state governorship election approaches on September 21, the political landscape in the state remains charged, with both major candidates vying for support. Shaibu’s statements reflect the high stakes of the election and the contrasting visions for the future of Edo state as voters prepare to make their decision.