If the information at our disposal is anything to go by, then it appears that a significant number of young people are showing strong support for Edo State’s deputy governor, Hon. Philip Shuaibu.
Top Society gathered from a reliable source that the youths are extremely annoyed and irritated by the recent actions taken by the State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Godwin Obaseki against his Deputy, His Excellency Hon. Shaibu, who the governor has been involved in what could be termed as an official democratic brouhaha.
Nevertheless, our reporter has discovered that despite facing challenges, the deputy governor enjoys substantial backing from the state’s youth. This is attributed to his extensive engagement in youth-related initiatives, notably his instrumental contribution to the triumphant campaign of the state’s soccer team, Bendel Insurance, during the previous Nigerian Professional Football League season. This led to numerous talented young players from the region shining brilliantly.
Aside this, Hon. Shaibu is also said to have upgraded the youths in other vital areas of their livelihood, encouraging them and affording them some positive mentality as regards their existence.
Additionally, Hon. Philip Shuaibu’s cool mien and calculative approach to issues also won the hearts of thousands of the younger generation of Edo State who saw him as a leader operating an open door policy unlike his principal.
Just last week, Hon. Shuaibu was alleged to make a move of cross carpeting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that infuriated former Governor and now Senator Adams Oshiomole who said the APC will not welcome a betrayal into its fold.
Edo youths are reportedly sad about this comment coming from a supposed leader like the former NLC president. However, the current scenario unfolding in Edo State indicates that the deputy governor is receiving backing from the Edolites.
Recall that the entire sordid situation started when Obaseki accused Shaibu of working against his interest, describing the situation as a “coup” against him.
He made the allegation in Jattu during a meeting with elders and leaders from Etsako West, East and Central Local Government Areas of the state.
The governor was quoted then to have said “My deputy called the leader in APC, telling that leader that during the elections on the next day, particularly the Speaker of the House of Assembly, that he has five members who are loyal to him and that he would like the seven members of APC to work with his five members of PDP to produce the next speaker.”