Philip Shaibu, the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, has commended Governor Godwin Obaseki’s successor, Monday Okpebholo, for his remarkable achievement in securing federal government support within his first 100 days in office. This accomplishment, according to Shaibu, stands in stark contrast to the previous administration led by Godwin Obaseki, under which such collaboration with the federal government was notably absent. Shaibu emphasized the significance of this federal support, highlighting its potential to liberate state resources, thereby enabling the allocation of funds towards a wider array of developmental projects and accelerating the pace of progress in Edo State. He lauded Okpebholo’s strategic engagement with the federal government, a crucial step that he admitted was overlooked during his tenure as Deputy Governor under Obaseki.
Shaibu’s acknowledgment of Okpebholo’s success underscores a significant shift in the political landscape of Edo State. While acknowledging the good intentions of the Obaseki administration, Shaibu pointed to the interference of political interests and vested agendas as obstacles that hindered their progress. This candid admission reveals a deeper understanding of the complexities of governance and the challenges that can arise even with the best of intentions. It also highlights the importance of fostering a collaborative relationship with the federal government to unlock resources and drive development effectively.
The former Deputy Governor’s commendation of Okpebholo’s approach signals a departure from the previous administration’s strategy, which seemingly prioritized state-level initiatives over federal partnerships. Shaibu’s praise for Okpebholo’s ability to secure federal support suggests a recognition of the limitations of solely relying on state resources and the potential benefits of leveraging federal assistance for the betterment of Edo State. This change in perspective reflects a growing understanding of the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in achieving developmental goals.
Beyond simply acknowledging Okpebholo’s achievements, Shaibu further emphasized the importance of public support and prayer for the new governor. He urged the people of Edo State to actively pray for their leader, recognizing that the success of a governor directly impacts the well-being of the entire state. This call for collective responsibility underscores the shared stake that citizens have in the success of their government. He stressed the need for divine intervention to shield Okpebholo from the negative influences that can sometimes derail even the most well-intentioned leaders. This appeal highlights the importance of ethical leadership and the need for leaders to remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the people.
Shaibu’s reflection on his own experience in government serves as a valuable lesson in the complexities of politics and the challenges of navigating competing interests. His admission that political maneuvering and vested interests often impede the implementation of good policies underscores the need for transparency and accountability in governance. This introspection reveals a level of self-awareness and a willingness to learn from past experiences, qualities that are essential for effective leadership.
The relationship between Shaibu and Obaseki, which once characterized by close alliance, deteriorated significantly leading up to the September 21, 2024, governorship election. This political fallout resulted in Shaibu’s return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party that Okpebholo represented in the election. Okpebholo’s subsequent victory, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), further solidified the shift in political power in Edo State. Shaibu’s public commendation of Okpebholo, despite their differing political affiliations, demonstrates a commitment to the progress of Edo State above partisan politics. It also suggests a potential for future collaboration between the two leaders, despite their past differences. This display of political maturity highlights the importance of prioritizing the welfare of the state over personal or political agendas.
