Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Saturday in Benin City, Shaibu made a dramatic display of loyalty by kneeling before Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of Edo State and current senator representing Edo North District.
“My father, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole,” Shaibu said, holding onto the senator. “I want to assure our national chairman and all the people of APC that we have come to add value and it is time to take our state back.”
Shaibu’s defection came less than 24 hours after he expressed that his spirit had left the PDP. He rejoined the APC alongside leading members of the Dan Orbih-led Legacy Group.
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Earlier in the week, a federal high court in Abuja reinstated Shaibu as the deputy governor of Edo State. Judge James Omotosho ruled that Shaibu’s impeachment violated legal provisions, ordering his reinstatement and directing the inspector-general of police to restore his security.
Governor Godwin Obaseki had announced Omobayo Godwins as Shaibu’s replacement just hours after the impeachment.
Shaibu and Oshiomhole’s relationship had previously soured during the 2020 Edo governorship election when Shaibu supported Governor Obaseki against Oshiomhole’s wishes. Despite this, Shaibu referred to Oshiomhole as his political godfather during his defection ceremony.
The tension between Obaseki and Shaibu escalated after Shaibu declared his intention to run in the 2024 Edo governorship election, leading to his eventual departure from the PDP.