The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has extended an apology to his political mentor and former governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, regarding his past choice of language during their political differences. Shaibu, however, stressed that his aspiration to succeed his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, as the next governor of the state stems from a divine conviction to serve the state and restore governance to the people.
Shaibu made these remarks during a live interview on a private broadcast television station in Lagos, which was monitored in Benin City. He said that his decision not to engage in conflicts with his boss, despite their strained relationship, was to avoid using language that might haunt him when he secures the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He said, “I want to be the next governor of Edo State not because l am Philip Shaibu, it is my constitutional right. Before publicly declaring my interest to contest, l had consulted widely with many persons and groups within and outside Edo State. Moreover, l went into prayers to seek guidance and direction from God. The signs l received encouraged me to go ahead with my aspiration, though it was obvious the Governor had his own plans of supporting another person.
“If my party wants to win the election in Edo State, give it to Philip Shaibu but if they want to lose, they should give it to somebody else, not because I am a superstar but because I have the content, I have the quality, I have the experience.”
Addressing his past disagreements with Oshiomhole, Shaibu expressed regret for his choice of language. He affirmed his apology to Oshiomhole and expressed his intention not to repeat such mistakes.
“I regret the language I used in our disagreements. The only aspect I apologise for and continue to apologise for to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole is the language I used. I don’t want to repeat the same mistake,” Shaibu remarked.
While reiterating his allegiance to Governor Obaseki, the Deputy Governor noted his commitment to supporting the Governor and the Government despite ongoing disputes and challenges to his constitutional rights.
“I have over time been deprived of my constitutional rights as Deputy Governor. This has not in any way affected my loyalty to the Governor. I have had to make lots of personal sacrifices to ensure a good relationship and deliver on our promise to Edo people. Sometimes, one has to play the fool for a relationship to survive,” he said.
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