The recently appointed Deputy Governor of Edo State, Omobayo Godwins, has expressed his unwavering loyalty to Governor Godwin Obaseki during their limited time working together before the end of the governor’s two consecutive terms on November 12, 2016. In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, the 37-year-old deputy governor, who took office on Monday following the impeachment of Philip Shaibu, stated that he is committed to fulfilling all the instructions given to him by his superior.
When questioned about the perception that the role of a deputy governor is often marginalized, Godwins responded that he is content with his position and views it as a valuable learning experience. He emphasized that he is not in a hurry to challenge or compete with the governor, but rather intends to focus on utilizing his strengths to contribute effectively.
Godwins also highlighted his strong grassroots support in Akoko Edo, a local government in the Edo North Senatorial District, which he believes will enhance the chances of Ighodalo, the governor’s preferred candidate, in the upcoming elections. Regarding Shaibu’s impeachment, Godwins simply stated that loyalty is an essential aspect of politics.
Shaibu, in response to his impeachment by the lawmakers, has expressed his rejection and labeled it as a direct threat to democracy.
He emphasized that this attack is not only targeted towards him as an individual, but also towards the very foundation of democracy that they hold dear.
Shaibu strongly believes that this impeachment is a dangerous step towards dictatorship and undermines the core principles of their democracy.
He made it clear that this impeachment was orchestrated due to his ambition to run for the Edo State 2024 governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which he believes is a legal right for all citizens of Nigeria.
It is worth noting that Shaibu served as Obaseki’s deputy from November 12, 2016, until April 8, 2024, when he was abruptly removed following a prolonged rift between the two former political allies. Over the course of a year, Obaseki and Shaibu’s once-smooth relationship deteriorated, leading to counter-accusations from both sides.
The governor accused Shaibu of planning a “coup” to overthrow him, while Shaibu accused Obaseki of instigating the state assembly to impeach him. Additionally, Shaibu, who participated in the PDP governorship primary, declared himself the winner in a parallel election after the party announced businessman Ighodalo as the party’s flag bearer.
