Edo State has been rocked by a series of events, leaving residents confused and concerned. Just yesterday, news broke about the sudden impeachment of Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. This dramatic move was followed within hours by the inauguration of a new deputy, leaving many citizens reeling.
The drama doesn’t stop there. Support groups for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etsako West Local Government Area have erupted in protest. Their target? Rumors that Shaibu, who recently left the APC, is seeking to rejoin the party.
Protesters Fear Shaibu’s Return Will Damage the APC
Hundreds of APC supporters marched through the streets of Auchi, the local government headquarters. Their destination: the party secretariat, where they submitted a strong message.
The spokesperson for the group, a former local government chairman, made their stance clear: Shaibu’s return is unwelcome. They argue that since leaving the party in 2020, Shaibu hasn’t won any elections. They believe his return will not benefit the APC.
Shaibu Accused of Hindering Past Elections
The protesters also hold Shaibu responsible for the 2019 Edo House of Assembly crisis. This incident involved 14 elected lawmakers who were not sworn in. The group believes Shaibu’s actions made Edo a laughingstock in terms of its legislative practices.
Their message directly addresses party leaders like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Adams Oshiomhole. They urge the leaders to reject Shaibu’s potential return, claiming he has nothing to offer the party.
Shaibu’s Camp Denies Influence of Protests
In response to the protests, Shaibu’s media aide dismissed them as a mere show. He claims the protesters are not representative of the party and have no say in who joins. He emphasizes that decisions about membership rest with the party leadership.
Edo Seeks Stability Amidst Political Turmoil
The people of Edo are left grappling with these recent events. The impeachment, followed by Shaibu’s potential return to the APC, has created a sense of uncertainty. Only time will tell how these developments will impact Edo’s political landscape.
