The embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has tendered an apology to his political father and former governor, Adams Oshiomhole, over his choice of language during the heated moments of their political differences.
The deputy governor explained that his ambition to succeed his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, was borne out of a divine conviction to serve the state and take governance back to the people.
He said one of the reasons he has not joined issues with his boss despite the frosty relationship between them was to avoid the use of language that may become his albatross when he eventually wins the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“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.
“If my party wants to win the election in Edo State, give it to Philip Shaibu but if they want to lose, they should give it to somebody else, not because I am a super star but because I have the content, I have the quality, I have the experience.
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“People have asked me if I had regrets about my confrontation with Oshiomhole because the governor I supported is now fighting me and I said no. I have apologised and I am still apologising to Oshiomhole for the language I used and that is why I said I don’t want to repeat the same mistake. I regret the language I used but in terms of the principle to support Obaseki, if I still have the opportunity I will support Obaseki because at that time, that was the right thing to do, it is the language used, and I apologise again to Oshiomhole on the language used.”
Notwithstanding the feud with Governor Obaseki, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the governor, saying in spite of ongoing altercations and deprivation of his constitutional rights, he was committed to supporting the governor and the government to end well and finish strong.
“I have over time been deprived of my constitutional rights as deputy governor. This has not in any way affected my loyalty to the governor. I have had to make lots of personal sacrifices to ensure a good relationship and deliver on our promise to Edo people. Sometimes, one has to play the fool for a relationship to survive,” Shaibu said.