Afegbua describes Edo current realities as comedy of errors, says Karma at work
In the midst of the political turmoil unraveling in Edo State, Prince Kassim Afegbua has weighed in on the clash between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, during a TVC interview. Afegbua, a seasoned political analyst, shared his insights on the current crisis, describing it as a combination of comedic missteps and the unfolding of karma’s consequences.
At the heart of the conflict lies a complex narrative of political dynamics and personal ambitions. Obaseki and Shaibu, both the first and second citizens of Edo State, previously aimed to weaken the grip of their benefactor, Adams Oshiomhole. However, their efforts to diminish Oshiomhole’s influence took an unexpected turn after the 2023 elections, as Oshiomhole emerged victorious as the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District. Their initial goal seemed defeated.
Afegbua pointed out that Shaibu, with aspirations to contest the governorship position in 2024, embarked on building separate political structures. This maneuver inevitably clashed with Obaseki’s own priorities, leading to a rift between the two. Afegbua observed the unfolding drama from a distance, acknowledging that while the situation was anticipated, the timing of the clash was sooner than expected.
The political analyst recalled past events, highlighting the deep-rooted discord between Obaseki and Shaibu. During the 2012 governorship election in Edo State, the duo even engaged in a physical altercation that required Afegbua’s intervention. Shaibu’s emergence as the deputy governorship candidate only reinforced Afegbua’s belief that their partnership was inherently strained. The ongoing conflict, in Afegbua’s view, merely confirms his prior reservations about their compatibility.
Afegbua expressed amusement at the ironic twist, where Obaseki accuses his Deputy of betrayal, noting the irony in a betrayer labeling his deputy as such. He described the situation as a “comedy of errors.” Moreover, Afegbua predicted that Obaseki might attempt to garner sympathy and project an image of innocence, particularly in light of upcoming local government elections in September. This could involve portraying Shaibu’s actions as deeply hurtful.
The analyst’s amusement extended to the political landscape, where he noted that both Obaseki and Shaibu deserve scrutiny for their actions. Specifically, Afegbua criticized their role in preventing the inauguration of 14 members of the House of Assembly, a move that kept them from performing their legislative duties. He called attention to the blatant disregard for democratic processes, a practice that should, in his opinion, merit impeachment.
Afegbua continued his analysis by underscoring the highly politically active nature of Edo State. He critiqued the argument put forth by the governor against his deputy as an instance of lazy and illogical scholarship. Afegbua delved into the relationship between Philip Shaibu and leaders of the rival party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggesting that such ties shouldn’t necessarily concern the governor. He went on to explain that both Shaibu and these leaders have at times played the role of the devil’s advocate, displaying a certain level of political pragmatism.
Regarding claims that Shaibu is collaborating with the camp of Adams Oshiomhole, Afegbua countered that such allegations wouldn’t find traction within the Oshiomhole camp. He emphasized the significant public clashes between Shaibu and Oshiomhole, including an incident where Shaibu rode on a bike to Oshiomhole’s village, Iyahmo, in an attempt to disrupt Oshiomhole’s attendance at a convocation in 2019. Afegbua recalled the derogatory language used by Shaibu to describe Oshiomhole, including labeling him a psychiatric patient in need of mental examination.
Afegbua was adamant that even if Oshiomhole were to consider reconciling with Shaibu, resistance would be imminent due to the unbecoming behavior exhibited by the deputy governor. He argued that there should be consequences for indecent conduct, particularly considering that Oshiomhole had played a pivotal role in their political careers.
Drawing from his own experience working with Obaseki and Shaibu during Oshiomhole’s tenure as governor, Afegbua provided insights into their character. He maintained that once in positions of power, they displayed a disregard for others and their tendencies veered toward the unsavory. Afegbua pointed to other political figures’ accounts of their experiences with Obaseki and Shaibu, including Nyesom Wike, former governor of Rivers State, and Chief Dan Orbih, former Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Obaseki’s own political party. According to Afegbua, these individuals’ shared negative experiences paint a consistent picture of the governor and his deputy.
Reflecting on Obaseki’s move to join the PDP, Afegbua disclosed his initial resistance due to concerns about Obaseki’s willingness to confront even his own benefactor. Afegbua believed that if Obaseki could stand against the APC, he might also challenge the PDP and its leadership.
As Afegbua’s insights into Edo State’s political landscape unfolded, he shed light on the intricate relationships, past clashes, and character traits that have contributed to the ongoing rift between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.
In closing, Afegbua mused over the current predicament faced by Obaseki and Shaibu, emphasizing the need for accountability. He expressed the desire to see a more profound reckoning, suggesting that the unfolding crisis should ultimately lead to their departure from the political landscape of Edo State. As the political drama continues to unfold, Afegbua’s analysis sheds light on the intricacies of power struggles and the intricate web of consequences they can bring.
