Former Edo Deputy Governor Phillip Shaibu Arming Thugs Ahead of Governorship Election – Sources Reveal

Ahead of the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024, Phillip Shaibu, the immediate past deputy governor of Edo State, is said to be arming thugs to disrupt the electoral process.

According to sources close to political circles in the state, Shaibu has imported some of the thugs from neighbouring Kogi State to reinforce his existing network of enforcers in Edo North senatorial district.

Shaibu, who previously served as a member of the House of Representatives, has gained notoriety for maintaining and funding a loyal group of thugs over the years.

The groups have reportedly been instrumental in helping him exert control and influence over the political landscape of Edo State, especially in his stronghold of Edo North.

Political observers and security experts are expressing concern that his activities could jeopardize the peaceful conduct of the upcoming election.

A source, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the issue, revealed that the former deputy governor has been stockpiling arms and distributing them to the thugs, raising fears of widespread violence during the election.

“Phillip Shaibu has always relied on these thugs to keep himself relevant in Edo politics. Now, with the stakes so high, he’s ramping up his efforts, importing thugs from Kogi State to bolster his ranks,” the source disclosed.

The reports come on the heels of recent unrest attributed to Shaibu’s thugs in the state capital, Benin City. Just a few weeks ago, a violent incident unfolded on Airport Road when Shaibu arrived in the city.

According to witnesses, gunshots were fired by thugs allegedly under his command, causing chaos. Tragically, a stray bullet fired during the clash killed a police inspector, Onu Ako, who was on duty at the time.

The accusations against Shaibu are not entirely new. Over the years, he has faced multiple allegations of using violence and intimidation to maintain political power.

His strategy of employing thugs to harass political opponents and coerce voters has long been a point of contention in Edo State. Despite these accusations,

Security analysts have expressed concern that the introduction of armed thugs into the electoral process could lead to widespread violence. “Elections in Nigeria, especially in states with deeply entrenched political rivalries like Edo, are often tense,” a security analyst, Dr. Anthony Dimka said.

“But the introduction of armed thugs can elevate this tension to deadly levels. The security agencies need to act decisively to ensure that these thugs are disarmed and that the election can proceed peacefully,” he added.

As the election date draws closer, many Edo citizens are hoping for a peaceful and fair process. However, the fear of violence, particularly in areas where thugs are said to be active, remains palpable.

A resident of Edo North, who asked to remain anonymous, expressed his fears: “We just want to vote in peace. We don’t want to be caught in the middle of violence. The government needs to step in now before things get out of hand.”

As Edo State prepares for what is expected to be a tightly contested governorship election, the accusations against Shaibu have raised serious concerns about the potential for violence and disruption.