Philip Shaibu, recently reinstated as the deputy governor of Edo State, has revealed that he now considers himself “an unofficial member” of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Shaibu made this disclosure during an interview on Arise TV’s Good Morning Show on Friday, July
This announcement follows a federal high court ruling in Abuja on Wednesday, July 17, that ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement after his impeachment in April. The court’s decision marks a significant development in Edo State’s political dynamics.
In a concerning incident, Shaibu’s convoy was attacked by suspected gunmen in Benin City during his first public appearance post-judgment. The attack resulted in the death of a police officer. At the time of the attack, Shaibu, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was accompanied by Monday Okpebholo, the APC candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo.
When questioned about his association with the APC governorship candidate, Shaibu stated that his “spirit” has departed from the PDP. He further elaborated, saying he is “as good as being a member of APC” and noted that “the only thing is that I have not officially left PDP.”
Shaibu’s remarks indicate a significant shift in his political allegiance, suggesting potential changes in Edo State’s political alliances as the governorship election approaches.
He added;
“For now, I am PDP. But going forward, if I declare for APC, it means that I have declared full support for Okpebholo. I am as good as being a member of APC, I can tell you that. I have two legs in APC. The only thing is that I have not officially left PDP. I am an unofficial member of APC. My spirit has left PDP.”
