Tensions soared within the political landscape of Edo State as the much-anticipated formal declaration of Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu’s gubernatorial ambition faced an unexpected hurdle today.
The anticipated launch, slated at Eterno Hotels in Benin City, was abruptly disrupted following the cancellation of Shaibu’s booking at the venue.
In a surprising turn of events, the hotel, situated in the Government Reserved Area and reportedly owned by a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, rescinded the booking made by Shaibu’s camp.
The management informed Shaibu’s team that the space was no longer available and refunded the payment.
Sources revealed to Punch that the cancellation was attributed to another group, the ‘Obaseki Finishing Well Group,’ which purportedly secured the venue for a simultaneous event on the same date and time.
Expressing dismay over the incident, an unnamed loyalist of Shaibu’s camp denounced the move as “preposterous” and a deliberate attempt to stifle the deputy governor’s gubernatorial declaration.
“We know where this is coming from. Whatever their plans to frustrate our declaration will definitely fail, they are jittery over Shaibu’s declaration and popularity,” the source alleged.
Despite the setback, the source affirmed Shaibu’s determination, asserting that attempts to thwart his declaration would fail.
Speculations about succession plans have intensified, with Shaibu’s gubernatorial ambitions seen as a challenge to Obaseki’s sway in shaping the future leadership of the state.
The strained relationship between the deputy governor and Governor Obaseki has been apparent, reaching a peak when Shaibu sought legal intervention to forestall his impeachment, a move he accused Obaseki and the State House of Assembly of plotting.
While reconciliatory gestures followed, such as Shaibu’s apology and Obaseki’s forgiveness, signs of discord lingered as Shaibu’s office was relocated from the government house.
Last week, amidst escalating tensions, Shaibu’s camp announced his imminent gubernatorial bid, sending ripples across the political spectrum.
A ‘Special Invitation’ disseminated by the Philip Shaibu Campaign Organisation beckoned dignitaries and the media to witness Shaibu’s formal announcement of his gubernatorial aspirations for the 2024 Edo State election.
