- Meets Chief Tony Anenih, Others
From Idu Jude Abuja
Preparatory to the Gubernatorial election come 2024, Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, has continued his consultations ahead of the primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with a visit to party stakeholders in Edo Central Senatorial District.
A press statement signed by his Chief press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiana indicated that the consultative meeting took place at the PDP Secretariat in Uromi, the administrative headquarters of Esan North East Local Government Area.
During his address, Shaibu praised the late national leader of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, for his unmatched legacy. He expressed his gratitude to the Edo Central PDP leaders for their unwavering support and commitment to the party. Shaibu emphasized the importance of personal relationships and reminded the senatorial leaders of their long-standing connection with him, dating back to his time as a student union leader.
Shaibu also stressed the need for a strong and resilient candidate from the PDP to counter the influence of the APC government, particularly their interest in taking over Osadebay’s house in 2024. He highlighted his track record of delivering exceptional results on assignments given to him as deputy governor and emphasized his experience and credentials as qualifications that set him apart from other candidates vying for the position of Governor of Edo State.
The Deputy Governor, however, shared his vision for the future, stating that he is a man of ideas who will not lack the means to propel Edo State forward once he becomes governor. He referenced his successful completion of 49 constituency projects during his time in the Edo State House of Assembly as an example of his ability to bring tangible change to the people.
He further expressed his desire to correct the mistakes that have plagued the government and party in the past three years, assuring the people that their demands and expectations are achievable with him at the helm of affairs. He promised to lead from the front and ensure maximum benefits for the people of the senatorial district and the state at large.
Recounting his experience serving his constituents in the Edo State House of Assembly, Comrade Shaibu reminded of an incident during his campaigns for a second tenure in the Edo State House of Assembly, where his video showcasing his constituency projects was requested to be taken down by party leadership, due to its impact on the electoral fortunes of other party candidates because many could not explain to their constituents why they do not have projects to show like him.
He promised that he would do more for the Esan people as they are dear to him, being the only man in government who has recognized their importance by appointing their son, Hon. Kingsley Ehigiamosoe as his Chief of Staff.
In terms of governance, Shaibu highlighted his financial prudence in executing projects and his efforts in unifying revenue collection to eliminate thuggery. He pledged to involve party chieftains in the selection of the state’s executive council members and promised to appoint party leaders and members to board memberships of parastatals in the state.
Meanwhile, Archbishop Anthony Okosun, the senatorial leader of the PDP, has commended Shaibu’s political credentials and praised his dedication to the success of the party. He urged Shaibu to use his influence to unite the party, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for the party’s success. Okosun also urged all aspirants to compete without enmity.