Embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shaibu says he has received divine backing in his quest to become the next governor of the state.
Shaibu who spoke on Channels Television disclosed that he has prayed and received God’s support on his quest to succeed incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki, his principal, who report said is backing another candidate for the top job.
Shaibu and Governor Obaseki were political allies until recently when they were torn apart by the former ‘s ambition.
The Deputy governor is banking on the support of his supporters to clinch the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, ticket for the November 2024 governorship election, though report says Shaibu is also planing to defect to the All Progressives Congress, APC, if his quest to represent PDP in the make or mar election, failed to materialised.
As the battle for the govrnorship intensifies, Governor Obaseki also recently slashed the Budget to Shaibu ‘s office, a move described by many as a plot to further frustrate the deputy governor on his campaign.
Governor Obaseki, on his part said he nursed no evil against the governor, saying Shaibu ‘s office budget was cut because less state functions have been assigned to him this year to enable him pursue his governorship ambition.
He needs no huge funds to run his office, now that he’s concentrating on his ambition, Obaseki said to the allegation that he’s trying to muscle Shaibu financially.
According to Shaibu, nothing could stop him from achieving his quest to be governor including road blocks mounted on his path by Governor Obaseki.
He said he has a divine assignment to serve the people of the state who, he claimed have thrown there weight behind him. Those who believe in his ambition are also supporting him financially he said.
Shaibu said:“Yes, I want to be the next Governor of Edo State not because l am Philip Shaibu, it is my constitutional right. Before publicly declaring my interest to contest, l had consulted widely with many persons and groups within and outside Edo State. Moreover, l went into prayers to seek guidance and direction from God. The signs l received encouraged me to go ahead with my aspiration, though it was obvious the Governor had his own plans of supporting another person.
“It is not correct when they say l am over ambitious, no, that’s not true. You see, over the years, l have made lots of sacrifices to impact the lives of people. I have played active roles and proven commitment in supporting the former Governor, Oshiomhole, even the present one, Obaseki. So, I have a lot of goodwill and financial support from people and groups who know l have the capacity to be Governor and God is using all of them to fund the campaign and by God’s grace, l will be the next Governor of Edo State”.
The feud between Shaibu and Obaseki got to a chilling point last year after the Deputy Governor was locked out of his office on the order of Governor Obaseki, who in his response to the saga said his Deputy was over ambitious.
