Edo State: Shaibu Hails Okpebholo’s First 100 Days in Office

Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has applauded the current Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for securing significant support from the Federal Government within his first 100 days in office.

In a recent TV interview, Shaibu stated that this support, which was lacking during his tenure and that of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, is a major achievement for Okpebholo’s administration.

Shaibu noted that the assistance from the Federal Government will help free up state resources, allowing for more development projects across Edo State. He commended Okpebholo’s ability to forge relationships with the federal center, a strategy he believes will accelerate the state’s growth.

“The clever thing the governor (Okpebholo) has done, which I applaud him for, is his ability to go to the center and woo support. This will free up Edo State’s resources for other important projects,” Shaibu said.

Reflecting on his own tenure under the Obaseki administration, Shaibu admitted that while the government had good intentions, political interests often derailed progress. He encouraged citizens to support and pray for Okpebholo, warning that if the governor faces setbacks, it could negatively impact the entire state.

“Every government, including ours, wanted to do good things, but political interests came in along the way,” Shaibu said. “That’s why I always urge people to pray for Okpebholo, to avoid the pitfalls that could hinder progress.”

Shaibu, who had a fallout with Obaseki ahead of the 2024 governorship elections, had switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party under which Okpebholo contested and won the election. Despite their political differences, Shaibu has expressed support for the new governor and the state’s future under his leadership.