Obaseki, Shaibu Political Fight Not My Business — Edo Dep Gov, Omobayo

The newly-sworn-in deputy governor of Edo State, Omobayo Godwins said the long-running political rift between his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deposed deputy, Philip Shaibu, is not his business.

Godwins stated this in an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday.

The new deputy governor said his appointment was an “act of God”.

Recall that Godwins was sworn in following the impeachment of Shaibu by the Edo state house of assembly.

The state assembly adopted the report of a seven-member investigative panel set up to probe the allegations against Shaibu as the deputy governor.

Shaibu was accused of “misconduct, perjury, and disclosure of government secrets”.

But, Shaibu has rejected the impeachment, saying he was impeached because of his desire to contest the 2024 governorship election.

Shaibu and Obaseki have been at loggerheads over issues regarding the governorship election in the state.

Speaking on the rift between the duo, Godwins said he was not aware of what happened between the governor and Shaibu.

Godwins said, “That is politics for you. Your job, first of all, is to be loyal. Even though Fashola said, ‘may your loyalty not be tested’. I don’t know what had happened in the past; that is not my business. I’m just happy for this opportunity.”

He added that he is also not interested in Obaseki’s relationship with the likes of Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), and others.

Godwins said he was contacted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the job.

He said, “The youths are very happy that a 37-year-old, who will be 38 on July 19, is now deputy governor. It is big news for them. It will raise their confidence to participate actively in politics,” he added.

“I came from Akoko Edo federal constituency. I consulted very widely, and popular opinion suggested that I should take that appointment, even if it is for 30 seconds, the people of Akoko Edo are very grateful.

“To me, it is like six years. It is not the number of years or months, it is by impact. I just want to finish strong with the governor.”