Hon. Philip Shaibu, the recently reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, has publicly forgiven Governor Godwin Obaseki for marginalizing him despite his loyalty and sacrifices. Shaibu shared this sentiment in a press conference following a meeting with Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), at the party headquarters in Abuja.

Responding to questions about whether he could forgive Obaseki, Shaibu emphasized that human imperfection is a given and that the key to peace is adhering to the principle of loving one’s neighbor as oneself. He recounted his own sacrifices, including forgoing official entitlements and adjusting his personal earnings to avoid conflicts, as a testament to his commitment to the state’s progress.

Shaibu also criticized the state government’s recent demand for him to return 22 official vehicles, asserting that most of these vehicles were purchased through personal or prior arrangements, not by the state government.

Reflecting on his return to the APC, Shaibu stressed the importance of internal party democracy as a means to stabilize Nigeria’s democracy. He expressed confidence in APC’s prospects in the upcoming Edo State governorship election, citing an increase in party numbers and a decline in PDP’s influence.

Shaibu dismissed concerns about his loyalty and underscored that the APC’s restructured leadership and returning members give it a strong edge in the electoral race. He also affirmed that the PDP’s relevance in Edo State is diminishing, suggesting that APC is poised for a strong showing in the election.

The Deputy Governor concluded by reiterating his commitment to fostering unity and peace within the party and the state.