“I’m Young Enough to Become Governor in the Future” — Shaibu

Reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has stated that he has temporarily shelved his ambitions of becoming governor to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the upcoming September 21 governorship election in the state.

In a recent address at the Afemai World Congress in Detroit, Michigan, USA, Shaibu, who has been vocal about his political aspirations, criticized Governor Godwin Obaseki for allegedly thwarting his governorship ambitions. Despite this setback, Shaibu expressed optimism about his future prospects, highlighting his youth and the potential for future opportunities.

Shaibu’s Current Political Stance

In a video clip shared by the Afemai World Congress organizers, Shaibu detailed his shift in political allegiance, stating, “I have moved from the PDP back to the APC. I moved to the PDP because of the governor (Obaseki) and I am back in the APC because of the governor.” He emphasized that his decision to support Okpebholo stems from his belief that Okpebholo is a more suitable candidate for governor compared to the PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who is endorsed by Obaseki.

Shaibu described the challenges he has faced, including his impeachment, which he claims was part of a broader effort to undermine his political aspirations. “I wanted to become the governor and they said they would destroy me if I continued to nurse that ambition,” he said. “They have done everything but God has kept me alive.”

Despite these challenges, Shaibu remains hopeful about his future in politics, asserting, “I am supporting the APC candidate because he is a breath of fresh air. He doesn’t speak too much English. He talks less and does more.” He continued, “If God says I will be governor, then I will be. I have left my ambition to God.”

Call for Diaspora Involvement

The acting Chairman of the Edo APC, Jarret Tenebe, echoed Shaibu’s call for increased diaspora involvement in Edo State’s political landscape. He urged members of the diaspora to take an active interest in the election, stating, “If you fail to be interested you will allow idiots to rule you.”

Tenebe underscored the significance of diaspora support in shaping the outcome of elections, asserting, “Today, it is impossible to win the election at home without the support of the diaspora.” He further encouraged diaspora members to engage with and support political initiatives aimed at improving governance in Edo State.

A Vision for the Future

Both Shaibu and Tenebe highlighted the critical role of the diaspora in influencing positive change and building a better future for Edo State. Shaibu’s emphasis on his future aspirations and Tenebe’s call to action reflect a broader push for proactive involvement in Nigeria’s political and developmental processes. As the governorship election approaches, the focus will be on how these dynamics unfold and impact the political landscape of Edo State.