‘APC holds special place in my heart’ — Philip Shaibu finally dumps PDP

Philip Shaibu, reinstated deputy governor of Edo state, has officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Shaibu made the announcement on Saturday in Benin City, the state capital.

This is coming less than 24 hours after Shaibu said his spirit had left PDP and he was already an “unofficial member” of the APC.

He was said to have rejoined the APC with leading  members of the Dan Orbih-led Legacy Group of the PDP.

“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.”

On Wednesday, James Omotosho, presiding judge of the federal high court in Abuja, nullified 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.

On April 8, Godwin Obaseki, governor of Edo, announced Omobayo Godwins as his deputy, hours after the impeachment of Shaibu.

Following the court verdict, on Saturday, Shaibu appointed aides, including chief press secretary and chief of staff.

The Edo state government faulted the appointments, saying Shaibu’s action is “provocative”.