Gov Obaseki Sends Strong Message to Deputy Says ‘Emilokan’ Won’t Work in Edo Guber Poll

Gov Obaseki Sends Strong Message to Deputy Says ‘Emilokan’ Won’t Work in Edo Guber Poll

  • The ongoing feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, has reached a fever pitch
  • Governor Obaseki recently stated that the 'Emilokan' spirit popularised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not be welcomed in Edo State politics
  • He made the statement while addressing the Edo South Senatorial District leaders at the State House in Benin

Edo, Benin - Governor Godwin Obasaki has reignited his heated feud with his deputy, Philip Shaibu, who has been speculated to be interested in the governorship seat of Edo State ahead of the 2024 gubernatorial elections.

Meanwhile, Governor Obaseki clarified that the “emilokan spirit” popularised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not sway Edo State politics, Premium Times.

Obaseki, Shuaibu
Governor Obaseki said the people of Edo State would be the ones to decide who governs them. Photo Credit: Governor Godwin Obaseki/Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu
Source: Facebook

The term “emilokan” is a Yoruba phrase meaning “it is my turn”, which became popular during President Tinubu’s visit to Ogun State party stakeholders in Abeokuta in the build-up to the 2023 general election.

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While addressing leaders of the Edo South Senatorial District at the State House in Benin, Governor Obasaki said the people of Edo would be the ones to decide to lead who to govern them.

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It was gathered that Shuaibu stood gallantly for Obaseki during his heated feud with his mentor and former governor, Adams Oshiomhole, during their stint with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Oshiomhole, at the time, was the national chairman of the APC who was attempting to block the nomination of Obaseki for a second term.

This feud forced Obaseki and Shuaibu to switch allegiance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later won their re-election into office.

However, Governor Obaseki's body language regarding Shuaibu's interest in the governorship seat has been negative, urging him not to be entitled.

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Shauibu denies rift with Obaseki

Meanwhile, Shuaibu has dismissed speculations and reports that he is not in any way feuding with his principal, as claimed by several reports.

In a recent report, Shuaibu claimed that he has always been loyal to his principal, and his loyalty remains the same.

He said:

“We are united in our determination to build a prosperous and inclusive society. I call on all well-meaning individuals to reject these divisive narratives and join in the quest to transform Edo State into a model of sustainable development and good governance.
"Edo State PDP politicians should embrace peace and seek unity to fight the common enemy,” Mr Shaibu was quoted as saying.

Trouble for PDP as APC confirms Obaseki's deputy’s defection to party

Meanwhile, the rift between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has taken a fresh dimension.

This time, the APC has dropped a hint about the return of Shaibu to the ruling party.

While the APC executives noted that Obaseki's deputy would be welcomed into the party next week, Senator Adams Oshiomhole urged Shaibu to settle his scores with his principal.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Segun Adeyemi avatar

Segun Adeyemi (Current Affairs and Politics Editor) Segun Adeyemi is a journalist with over 9 years of experience as an active field reporter, editor, and editorial manager. He has had stints with Daily Trust newspaper, Daily Nigerian, and News Digest. He currently works as an editor for Legit.ng's current affairs and politics desk. He holds a degree in Mass Communication (Adekunle Ajasin University). He is a certified digital reporter by Reuters, AFP and the co-convener of the annual campus journalism awards. Email: segun.adeyemi@corp.legit.ng.