Edo State's Deputy Governor, Philip Shuaibu, expressed his readiness to hand over his position to the newly elected governor, Monday Okpebholo, and his deputy, regardless of the presence of the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki. In an interview with Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, Shuaibu clarified his intentions amidst rumors of Obaseki’s absence from the state.
Shuaibu emphasized his commitment to a smooth transition of power, stating, “Whether he [Obaseki] is there or not, I am ready to hand over.” He acknowledged his difficult journey working with Obaseki, mentioning that their communication has been strained, with no interaction between them in recent days.
Reflecting on his tenure, Shuaibu highlighted his loyalty to Obaseki, which led him to switch from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside the governor. Now, he has returned to the APC, saying, "I thank him [Obaseki] for the opportunity to reunite with my political mentor, Adams Oshiomhole, whom I disagreed with because of Obaseki."
Governor Obaseki, who officially ended his tenure on Monday, granted pardons to 10 inmates in correctional centers across Edo State as his final act in office. This prerogative of mercy was announced by the Office of the Special Adviser, Media, Governor’s Office.
Okpebholo, having emerged victorious in the September 2024 gubernatorial election over PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, will assume office as the fifth governor of Edo State since Nigeria's Fourth Republic began in 1999.
