Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Ward 11, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, have endorsed Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, to run for the 2024 governorship election.
The members announced their endorsement during a reception for Shaibu on his arrival at the ward meeting.
The Chairman of the ward, Igbafe Agbonoga, affirmed the deputy governor’s acceptability among his people, party members, and the populace.
According to the Ward Chairman, “We have agreed that Philip Shaibu must run for 2024 Governorship Election. We know he would make a huge difference, if elected as the next Governor of our dear State. Our decision is based on the ideology of the Deputy Governor’s practicality in governance during his tenure as a member of Edo State House of Assembly and National Assembly respectively, which focused on ensuring a paradigm shift in governance.
“The Ward 11 PDP members and leadership, after critically examining the antecedents and capacity of the Deputy Governor, we have decided to endorse and support him to run and win the Edo 2024 Governorship Election.
“This decision was taken with due consultations with our party faithful, across the entire Ward 11 of PDP, Estako West.
“Let me reiterate, that it is our belief that the Deputy Governor is the most credible and qualified person for Edo 2024. As we prepare to elect a new Governor in a matter of months to come, we need not just any politician, but a man with the best interest of the State at heart, in addition to the necessary experience.
“We need the Deputy Governor to stir the ship of the State from the usual failed expectations and disappointments that have been our bane.
“It is on this note that we are here, to announce that after careful scrutiny of those aspiring to be Governor, we have found that the most suitable man for the job is Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu and we so endorse him for the number one seat of Edo State.”
However, a source close to the Edo Government House told PM News that the endorsement did not sit well with Shaibu’s principal (Obaseki).
According to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Governor Obaseki already have an anointed candidate which will be revealed soon.
The source said: “That endorsement from Shaibu’s ward is a waste of time, the Governor has his anointed candidate and that person will win the primary election of the PDP. I won’t say more.”
Governor Obaseki had earlier this year accused Shaibu of planning to succeed him at all costs.
According to Obaseki, Shaibu is so desperate to be the next governor of Edo State.
The governor also warned his deputy that “It’s my turn politics” will not work in 2024.
“The ‘Emilokan’ syndrome or spirit is not a strategy for winning elections and ruling Edo people,” the governor stated in August 2023 while speaking on Shaibu’s desperation to succeed him.
credit: PM News
