Edo Deputy Governor Joins 2024 Edo Governorship Race

Edo Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, on Monday announced his intention to contest for the governorship of the state in the 2024 election, despite staunch opposition by his principal, Godwin Obaseki.

In a pre-recorded speech aired at his campaign office in Benin City before enthusiastic party supporters, Shaibu said he would contest the election under the platform of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the state.

He emphasized his commitment to the state’s growth, adding that he decided to go ahead in his bid to become the next governor of Edo State after he received favourable responses during his consultations.

“After all the consultation we have made, we needed to now make the answer to our consultation known to our people. And the answer is clear: they have asked me to run”, Shaibu said, highlighting his dedication to the state’s progress at 53 years old.

Despite conflicts with Governor Godwin Obaseki over his governorship aspirations, Shaibu remained resolute, stating he’s faced persecution but not defeat.

Obaseki had opposed Shaibu’s ambition because the deputy governor hails from the same senatorial zone former governor Adams Oshiomhole.

The Edo State Governor reportedly preferred a candidate from the Central senatorial district of the State to take over from him.

Obaseki has been at loggerheads with Shaibu over his ambition and today’s declaration will definitely result in a flare up of the enmity between the duo.