Shaibu’s Decamp to APC Fuels Demand for Okpebholo’s Protection in Edo

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

In a significant political development, the just reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shaibu, has decamped from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

The move, a major boost for Monday Okpebholo, a prominent APC figure, whose candidacy for the governorship of Edo State reinforcing the push for the protection of the candidate, who recently faced assassination attempts in Edo State.

The development is also bringing a twist to the forthcoming election amidst legal battle in the opposition party. 

APC Edo State Chairman, Jarett Tenebe had hailed the decampment, stating, “This is a big blow and loss to the PDP. The election-winning mathematical engineer is gone. Phillip Shaibu is one of the smartest politicians and is fully endorsing Monday Okpebholo. If you’re in Edo by now, you should know who the next governor of Edo State is. More strong PDP forces will pull off in the next couple of days. PDP Edo State will be empty. Let the dictator, who publicly disrespected our OBA and destroyed the houses and livelihood of poor ordinary Edolites just to satisfy and allocate lands to his big friend, know he is loyal to none and listens only to himself. He betrays everybody.”

This statement has ignited a flurry of social media reactions, with hashtags like #SayNoToPDP trending. Supporters of Monday Okpebholo have taken to Instagram to express their approval. 

One user, ifeoluwa_braid, commented, “But why is Obaseki misusing his power? Wetin CP do you gangan? I’m still wondering why Obaseki uses the CP solely for his own interest… We are all looking forward to Edo having a great future.”

Another user, ikagbemi_1, added, “Obaseki is the problem, and he needs to rest at this point. Senator Monday will win with a landslide. Nothing wey Obaseki wan do, we are tired of his tyranny and impunity. Senator Monday is who we want.”

The shift in political allegiance by Shaibu is seen as a turning point in Edo State politics, with many predicting a significant impact on the upcoming gubernatorial election. The endorsement by such a high-profile figure as Shaibu is expected to sway many voters and further destabilize the already fractured PDP in the state.

As the political landscape in Edo continues to evolve, the call for protection and support for Monday Okpebholo grows louder. Many see him as the people’s governor, a leader capable of bringing about the much-needed change and development in Edo State.