In a recent statement, Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, implored Governor Godwin Obaseki for forgiveness, acknowledging any mistakes he may have made as a human being. This plea, delivered during a conversation with journalists, was motivated by Shaibu’s desire to ensure the successful completion of the present administration’s tenure in the state.
The deputy governor’s appeal came shortly after he was inaugurated as the Grand Patron of the Catholic Men Organisation of Nigeria within the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City. This move followed a period of tension between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu, largely stemming from allegations that Shaibu harboured ambitions to succeed Obaseki as governor.
Amidst the ongoing crisis, which has persisted for several weeks, Shaibu had taken legal action against Obaseki, and in response, the governor relocated Shaibu’s office away from the government house.
However, on Thursday, Shaibu reiterated his loyalty, stating, “I have always said that I am a loyal servant, and nothing has changed. I took a vow to support my governor, and as you can see, the Catholic people are here.” He further added, “Everything about me is that if I have a vow with God, there is nothing that can change it. I can only wish that the relationship that we had before, I pray and know that in the next few weeks, it will come back.”
Shaibu expressed his yearning for reconciliation, saying, “I am missing my governor, and I pray that God will touch my governor’s and all our hearts, and even those that are trying to be in between us, God would touch their hearts to know that I mean well.” He emphasised that any mistakes he may have made were purely human and not driven by malice, as he maintained a clean heart.
Through this medium, Shaibu appealed to Governor Obaseki, saying, “If there is any mistake I have made or if there is anything that I have done that I don’t know of, he should please forgive me so that we can develop our state together.”
Shaibu highlighted that the administration had only one year left in office and that their unique relationship had garnered attention nationwide for its challenges. He expressed his gratitude to the Catholic Men Organisation for the honour, emphasising his devotion to serving God and acknowledging that his life was centered around his faith.
The President of the Catholic Men Organisation of the Archdiocese of Benin, Austin Odigie, explained that the decision to appoint Shaibu as Grand Patron was based on his unwavering commitment to the church’s work and values.
