The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took aim at Comrade Philip Shaibu on Sunday following his rejoining of the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that he has plunged further into the depths of public disdain.
The PDP accused Shaibu of revealing his true allegiance to a political party characterized by corruption, oppression, and a penchant for violence, which undermines the will of the Nigerian populace.
In a statement released by spokesperson Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party expressed little surprise at Shaibu’s decision to return to the APC after his failed attempts to thwart the democratic will of Edo State, which they believe is embodied in the candidacy of Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
The PDP remarked that Shaibu’s return to the APC, a party now burdened by an inadequate candidate, only serves to reinforce the prevailing sentiment that he was never genuinely invested in serving the interests of Edo State’s citizens.
“Nigerians are beginning to understand why Comrade Shaibu lacked a substantial campaign manifesto or policy framework for Edo State,” the statement continued. “His actions seemed solely focused on derailing the PDP’s nomination process and undermining the will of the majority.”
The party lamented Shaibu’s situation, suggesting he has been used and discarded, now facing significant rejection within the APC, where he has been labeled a “complete political liability” and a “cancerous politician” whose ambition poses a threat to the party’s integrity.
Local APC members from Shaibu’s Etsako West constituency reportedly remarked that a closer examination of his political history reveals a tendency to foster discord and crisis within any political group he aligns with. They further criticized his lack of electoral appeal and warned that his return to the APC was a deliberate effort to incite turmoil within the party.
The party also highlighted that within just 24 hours of Shaibu’s APC return, support for the PDP has surged, as many citizens of Edo State, unwilling to associate with Shaibu, are now rallying behind the PDP and its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
“It is evident that Dr. Asue Ighodalo is the sole candidate offering well-structured, people-centric programs, possessing the necessary skills, experience, and public approval to fulfill the aspirations of Edo State residents for ongoing development under the PDP banner,” the party asserted.
The PDP welcomed those from the APC and other political factions who are now joining forces with them and Dr. Ighodalo.
