Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-south Zone has strongly criticised the attempt by members of the Edo State House of Assembly to impeach the Deputy Governor of the state, Comrade Philip Shaibu, on the basis of alleged misconduct.
In a statement issued by the South-South Publicity Secretary, Mr. Bishop Ante, the chapter said the move to impeach the deputy governor was unreasonable and uncalled for.
The chapter said it was even more wrong at a time the party is striving for reconciliation amidst internal divisions ahead of the governorship elections scheduled for September 21, 2024.
“It is a sad development and indeed a sign of failure of the leadership of the party in Edo State to allow internal political disagreements to snowball into a major crisis that could jeopardise the chances of the party in the forthcoming governorship elections in the state,” the group said.
While acknowledging the authority of the State House of Assembly to impeach the deputy governor, the PDP emphasised that such powers must be exercised in accordance with the laws of the land.
The party expressed concern over the ongoing feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy Philip Shaibu, elected on the PDP platform to improve the welfare of the people.
The PDP feared that this mandate has been neglected, evident in the current political crisis in the state.
While urging Governor Obaseki to abandon the idea of impeaching his deputy, the party warned that such a move, particularly based on politically induced and unfounded allegations, could severely impact the party’s chances in the forthcoming elections.
The statement commended the maturity and restraint shown by Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu amidst provocation and urged him to continue being a loyal and committed party member.
At this critical juncture, the PDP stressed the importance of Governor Obaseki focusing his efforts on reconciling and unifying the Edo PDP Family to secure victory for the party in the upcoming elections.
“Engaging in a self-serving impeachment move against Philip Shaibu at this time will do us no good,” the statement concluded.”
