The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has clarified that he is not in competition with Governor Godwin Obaseki. This statement came after the governor’s decision to cover the hospital expenses of the attacked players and officials of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure.
The team was attacked by armed robbers while en route to Benin for a scheduled NPFL Match against Bendel Insurance. One of the ball boys was shot, and the players and officials were left traumatized.
Initially, Shaibu had promised to cover the hospital bills, but Obaseki also pledged that the state government would take care of the medical expenses. In response to Obaseki’s gesture, Shaibu stated that he would no longer cover the bills of the players and officials.
According to a statement by Shaibu’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebomhiana Musa, both the Governor and Deputy Governor’s office are unified and not in competition. Despite the reported reconciliation between Obaseki and Shaibu, there have been ongoing tensions. Shaibu has expressed interest in running for governor of the state, while Obaseki has stated that the members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will determine his fate.
