In a twist that’s both laughable and serious, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has embraced the apology offered by his deputy, Philip Shaibu. The two political heavyweights have been engaged in a fierce feud, mainly over Shaibu’s aspirations to rule the oil-rich state. Last week, in a peculiar public spectacle, the deputy governor begged for forgiveness, stating, “I use this platform to implore Mr. Governor, if there’s anything I’ve done unknowingly, please forgive me so we can develop our state together.”
A week later, Governor Obaseki, in a statement he personally penned, deemed the petitions signed by his deputy as “unnecessary provocations.” These petitions aimed to prevent impeachment proceedings against him and involved security agencies. Obaseki dismissed the notion of impeachment, emphasizing his obligation to accept the apology. He optimistically believed that Shaibu’s public apology was genuine and hoped for improved conflict resolution skills.
He stated, “Although these unwarranted provocations caused me severe personal discomfort, as a person of faith, I am obligated to accept this apology because, as they say, ‘to err is human, to forgive is divine.’ In good faith, I trust that the public apology by the Deputy Governor is genuine and followed by sincere efforts to enhance his conflict resolution skills.”
Furthermore, Governor Obaseki encouraged Shaibu to ensure his supporters acted in line with his newfound piety. He expressed a collective hope among government colleagues and Edo residents that these political theatrics would cease, allowing the administration to complete its term effectively.
In a humorous twist, observers might imagine former Governor Oshiomole enjoying a glass of wine at home, chuckling at the ongoing spectacle between Obaseki and Shaibu. This situation is ironic, considering that both Obaseki and Shaibu were once united against Oshiomole. However, the way Obaseki chose to handle his issues with his deputy, including locking him out of the state house, appears rather petty.
Similar dramas are unfolding in other states, such as Ondo, where the Governor and Deputy Governor’s relationship appears on shaky ground, with threats of impeachment looming large. The stage is set for more political fireworks in the realm of Nigerian politics.
