Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, elaborated on his decision to run for governor, citing his concerns about the leadership style of Governor Obaseki and the broader system. He expressed that Edo State needs a leader who truly understands the people and can act in their best interest. In his view, Obaseki was a “packaged” leader, brought in from Lagos, with little connection to the people of Edo. He pointed out that Obaseki doesn’t even own a house in the state, emphasizing that the people no longer want outsiders or “visitors” to lead them.
He contrasted himself with Obaseki, emphasizing his deep roots in Edo. He described himself as an “Edo boy” who speaks the local language and lives among the people. He reiterated his belief that Edo needs leaders who have a genuine understanding of the community’s needs and challenges, suggesting that Obaseki’s outsider status makes him less effective in addressing these issues.
He said in an interview with TVC from 5:51, “I decided to contest for governorship of Edo State because of the character that I see in Obaseki and the character I see in the whole system. And I know what Edo people need is someone that understands the people, someone that can do the will of the people. You talk about packaged leaders—Obaseki was packaged.
He was imported from Lagos. We imported him He does not even have a house in Edo State, so we don’t want visitors again. I’m an Edo boy. I speak my language. I live with them. Obaseki, on the other hand, was an import. We imported him. He was imported from Lagos. We don’t want that again. We want people who understand our issues.”