The reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, Mr Philip Shaibu, along with some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legacy coalition, have officially joined the All Progressive Congress (APC).
The defection took place during the APC Edo State’s inauguration of the National Working Committee for the September off cycle governorship election in the state.
The event which was held on Saturday, was attended by Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the APC, as well as governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State and Bassey Otu of Cross River State.
Also, other APC leaders such as Edo State APC Chairman Jarett Tenebe, governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and former governor Adams Oshiomole were also present at the meeting.
Speaking during his defection, Shaibu said, “It is a triumphant homecoming for me, as I officially return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party where I am accepted, valued, and welcomed with open arms. The party holds a special place in my heart, and where I have shared countless memories,” Shaibu said.
“I am grateful to be back among the people and community that have always supported me, and to reunite with my political family.
“On behalf of the Legacy Group, I announce our movement to the APC. We have come to add value to the party.
“It is time to take back our state. We will not talk too much because action will speak for us. We are not afraid. We are ready to move forward.
“We, the homeboys, are ready to take our state back through the APC governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo, and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa.
“We are not troublemakers, but if it comes, we will use it to rub our body, and we move on.”
Though, this is coming after a recent face-off where Shaibu accused governor Godwin Obaseki of preventing him from entering Edo State.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, James Omotosho, presiding judge of the federal high court sitting in Abuja, voided the removal of Shaibu as deputy governor of Edo.
The judge held that Shaibu’s impeachment violated the provisions of the law.
The court declared that Shaibu’s ouster on April 8, 2024, by the Edo state house of assembly was politically motivated.
The judge ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement and directed the inspector-general of police to restore his security.