Edo Gubernatorial race heats up: Philip Shaibu throws hat into the ring, challenges Obaseki’s legacy

In a bold move that intensifies the political landscape in Edo State, Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has officially declared his intention to run for the governorship position, challenging his incumbent boss, Governor Godwin Obaseki. This announcement comes amid a backdrop of strained relations between the two political figures.

Shaibu, vying for the governorship on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserted that Edo requires a pragmatic leader. The Deputy Governor, recently evicted from the Deputy Governor’s Lodge, questioned Obaseki’s governance, labeling it as experimental during his nearly eight-year tenure.

Addressing reporters in Benin City, Shaibu emphasized the necessity for practical governance, stating, “Edo people need competence and experience, not another experiment with someone unfamiliar with the state’s politics and the people’s needs.”

Expressing concern about the approaching 2024 Edo governorship election, Shaibu questioned the wisdom of experimenting with a new leader who may spend the initial four years learning on the job, followed by another four years focused on personal gains.

He posed critical questions: “Who is competent? Who is more experienced? Who will hit the ground running from day one?” Shaibu advocated for a governor with the ability to make an immediate impact, contrasting it with the potential drawbacks of entrusting the state to a leader still learning the ropes.

As Edo braces for a politically charged election, Shaibu’s candidacy adds a new dimension to the unfolding drama, setting the stage for a compelling contest in 2024.