Why Shaibu Stay Clear From APC “Thank You Party” In Iyamho
By EDITOR
The reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, Mr. Philip Shaibu, intentionally avoided the “Thank You” rally organized by the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Edo North senatorial district to celebrate the party’s victory in the September 21 governorship election.
It was learned that his decision was influenced by political necessity rather than any other consideration.
Reports indicate that Shaibu was primarily concerned about the possibility of being booed by the throng of Edo North APC chieftains who graced the much-publicized event.
Instead, Shaibu opted for the Edo South Senatorial District version of the same event, while the seat reserved for him at the Edo North rally was vacant.
The Edo North district “Thank You” rally was held in Iyamho, Uzairue kingdom, Etsako West, the country home of former Edo State governor now senator representing Edo North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Adams Oshiomole, who also doubles as the Edo State leader of the APC.
Incidentally, Shaibu is from the same constituency and local government as Oshiomole.
The victory party attracted top APC bigwigs, including the party’s governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpevbolo, and his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and other APC chieftains in the district.
Observers believe that Shaibu’s absence at the Edo North rally was a tactical move to avoid the anger of party members who have not yet accepted his return to the party.
Some Edo North APC chieftains, speaking to newsmen, stated that the Edo North APC rank and file are not happy with him and the role he played during the Obaseki/Oshiomole face-off
It was also said that the majority of party members have not accepted Shaibu ‘s membership hence the warning by some APC loyalists that he should stay away from the victory rally to avoid possible public embarrassment, especially since the event would be extensively covered by the media.
Further investigation revealed signs of rejection of the reinstated deputy governor, especially among his Etsako kinsmen.
They believe that immediately integrating him into the party’s top echelon is akin to allowing him to benefit where he did not sow.
