Ousted Edo Dep Gov, Philip Shaibu Makes U-Turn, Sings Tinubu & Wike’s Praises

Ahead of the election that gave him a second term in office as the Deputy to Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2020 and after the election, Philip Shaibu was at different times against the political interests of President Bola Tinubu (yet to be elected at the time) and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja (Governor of Rivers state at the time).

Shaibu and Obaseki left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pitch a tent with the rival People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in a fierce fight for political survival that endlessly trolled the political might of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu with “Edo No Be Lagos” as main slogan. They emerged victorious against all odds with Wike a major power in the PDP in their corner.

Barely two years later, Shaibu and Wike became embroiled in a public face-off with “ingrate” bandied loosely about town.

Shaibu is believed to have been protecting the interest of his partnership with Obaseki in taking on Tinubu and Wike.

But, by April 8, 2024, the partnership between Shaibu and Obaseki that put them in charge of the Edo State Government was “permanently severed” with his removal as the Deputy Governor of Edo state over his refusal to “stand down” his ambition to become the next Governor.

On Thursday, April 30, 2024, the impeached Deputy Governor who insists he is not leaving the PDP in the face of his removal from office made a public u-turn on his stance on President Tinubu and Minister Wike.

Along with featured pictures, he wrote on social media – …

“Earlier today, I had the honour of joining His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, (GCFR); the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike; leaders of the National Assembly and other leaders, to inaugurate the Wuye Bridge interchange, a critical infrastructure project linking Wuse and Wuye Districts in the Nation’s capital, Abuja. 

This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the administration’s first anniversary, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to infrastructural development and improved traffic flow in the FCT.

I commend Mr. President for his visionary leadership and conscious efforts to build infrastructure, a key driver of economic growth and development. The Wuye Bridge interchange is a game-changer for the residents of Wuse and Wuye Districts, as it will significantly improve traffic flow within and around the district, reducing congestion and travel times. 

Kudos also to the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, alias ‘Mr. Project,’ for his tireless efforts in completing a project that was initiated in 2009, within a remarkably short period. 

As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and effective leadership in achieving meaningful progress. I look forward to seeing more projects like this come to fruition under the leadership of President Tinubu.”

He signed the post filled with huge praises – and the featured images – with his traditional “— HPS”.

The move comes after his political godfather he went all out against to help Obaseki secure a second term, Adams Oshiomhole – a former Governor and now sitting Senator in Edo – publicly hinted the former deputy governor is unwelcome in APC.