The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned former deputy governor Philip Shaibu for his recent comments describing the party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, as an outsider. Shaibu, a member of the PDP, has publicly declared his support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the upcoming governorship election.
The PDP expressed disappointment and dismay at Shaibu’s stance, labeling his reasons as “weak” and urging him to resign from the party and openly support the APC. According to the party’s deputy director general of media, Rev. Olu Martin, Shaibu’s argument that Ighodalo is an outsider because he didn’t grow up in Edo State is baseless and sentimental.
Martin emphasized that being born outside of Edo State does not make Ighodalo a stranger, and that his candidacy is rooted in his ability to provide quality leadership to the people of Edo State. He expressed disappointment that Shaibu failed to highlight the qualities and capabilities of his preferred candidate, instead resorting to ethnic and sentimental arguments.
The PDP’s reaction comes after Shaibu’s comments sparked outrage among party members, who see his actions as a betrayal of trust and loyalty. Shaibu’s decision to support the APC candidate has raised questions about his true intentions and political affiliations.
The party’s leadership has urged Shaibu to do the honorable thing and resign from the PDP, rather than continue to masquerade as a member while openly supporting the opposition. They emphasized that the PDP is committed to providing good governance and leadership to the people of Edo State, and will not be swayed by Shaibu’s antics.
