Tensions rose within the political landscape of Edo State as Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu’s long-awaited formal declaration of his gubernatorial ambition faced an unexpected obstacle today. The anticipated launch, scheduled at Eterno Hotels in Benin City, was abruptly disrupted after the hotel canceled Shaibu’s booking for the venue. The hotel, located 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Government Reserved Area and reportedly owned by a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, rescinded the booking made by Shaibu’s team, citing that the space was no longer available and refunded the payment.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. In response to 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. 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 Governor 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 invited dignitaries and the media to witness Shaibu’s formal announcement of his gubernatorial aspirations for the 2024 Edo State election.