Shaibu snubs Obaseki, to declare ambition tomorrow
The rift and political crisis between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy Philip Shaibu may not be totally over. In fact, the matter may just be starting in real term. The deputy governor is set to dare and snub his principal and go on to declare his ambition to rule the state.
The genesis of their quarrel is the interest of the Shaibu in the job of his principal. He simply wants to succeed Obaseki as the Edo State governor. But Obaseki doesn’t seem to be cool with that decision. He wouldn’t want the deputy to take over from him. Governors often independently choose their successors in Nigeria.
Philip Shaibu has had a campaign organisation named after himself and he is ready to declare his bid for the job tomorrow in an event. The Punch Newspaper obtained a copy of the letter which the deputy governor himself signed.
The Special Invitation,” read, “On behalf of Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu Campaign Organisation, I invite you to honour me with your esteemed presence as I offer myself to serve as the Chief Servant (Governor) of Edo State.”
As stated in the letter, the event is scheduled to be held on Monday, November 27, at the Eterno Hotels, by 8am.
While hinting journalists last week, Mr. Philip Shaibu talked about why he intends to take over from his boss. He said, “Edo people are in dire need of practical governance and we cannot afford to experiment again with someone who does not understand the politics and needs of Edo State.”
He added, “Everywhere, including the international scene, people are clamouring that governments should not be pushing projects that are not needed. So, we need to do needs assessment. You cannot know the needs of the people when you don’t live with them.
