Governor Obaseki Accuses Deputy of Manipulating Youth Council Election, PDP Leaders Pass Vote of Confidence

The ongoing feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, continues to escalate, as Obaseki accuses Shaibu of orchestrating the election of the Edo State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to further his gubernatorial aspirations. Meanwhile, leaders of the Edo Central Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticize Shaibu for pursuing legal action over alleged impeachment threats without exhausting internal party dispute resolution mechanisms.

Governor Obaseki revealed his concerns during the commemoration of International Youths Day at the Youth House in Benin City. Addressing the crisis within the youth council leadership, Obaseki acknowledged that Shaibu had manipulated the election without his knowledge or authorization. He attributed Shaibu’s actions to a political ambition aimed at controlling the council to serve his political goals. Obaseki apologized for the incident and assured a future transparent election process.

Edo’s First Lady, Betsy Obaseki, expressed support for the youth and their endeavors, urging them to strive for excellence and promising her unwavering backing.

In a separate development, PDP leaders convened in Igueben Local Government Area, issuing a vote of confidence in Governor Obaseki and expressing concern over the deteriorating relationship between Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu. The leaders, including Tony Aziegbemi (State Chairman of PDP), Chief Tom Ikimi (Former Chairman, PDP Board of Trustee), and other prominent figures, emphasized the need for unity within the party.

The leaders commended the progress of peace and reconciliation efforts aimed at harmonizing factional differences within the party, particularly in Edo Central. They highlighted the unnecessary and avoidable controversy surrounding the governorship succession issue, which lies at the core of the disagreement between Obaseki and Shaibu.

The leaders stressed the importance of equity and other factors in selecting the next governor, while pointing out the consensus that the next governor should come from Edo Central. They urged a cordial and reasonable approach to decision-making within the party, emphasizing that intimidation and blackmail should be avoided.

Ultimately, the PDP leaders expressed their solidarity with Governor Obaseki, affirming his commitment to completing his tenure strongly and effectively. They called upon all well-meaning individuals to join forces with the governor in his efforts to uplift Edo State.