Benin (Precise Post) – Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, yesterday gave reasons why he trusted his deputy, Hon. Philip Shaibu, despite both of them coming from different background.
Obaseki also pointed out that himself as unrepentant capitalist with a human face, stressing that he discovered that Shaibu was someone he would trust because he (Shaibu) meant well and had good intentions for the state.
Speaking at the Praise and Worship night to mark Shaibu’s 50th birthday, Obaseki disclosed that both of them fell apart in the first assignment they were both given in 2013.
Obaseki said there was no internal fighting in his administration because himself, Shaibu and the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie were being driven by the same values on how to better the lots of Edo people.
He said the three of them alligned easily in taking decision because they shared the same thinking and values, saying he and Shaibu never interacted when he worked as Chairman of the State Economic Team while Shaibu was Majority Leader of the Edo Assembly.
Obaseki said: “Once he was brought in and was told that is the way to go, he totally keyed in. He stood by me. It was not about us but others. Once I made the decision of him as my running mate, I didn’t have peace. People said I was finished and have been set up. They said I should not eat or drink in my office when I am with him and Ogie.
“I was clear in my mind. I do not see how we would have succeeded in doing the things we have done without him. For him, it is about Edo people. What I find unique about him is that he is not driven by materialism. He is in the struggle not for himself or his family.
“They call us twin brothers but we are now three. We are getting stronger every day. Shaibu is a man you can trust. He is a man of conviction. He has given everything for our state.
“It is unfortunate that those who will sacrifice a lot to keep in office are now on the other side. Will they come back to appreciate the price that was paid for them?
