Philip Shaibu, reinstated deputy governor of Edo, dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Saturday.
But that is only one half of the story.
While announcing his defection in Benin City, Shaibu knelt before Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of the state and senator representing Edo north district.
“My father, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole,” Shaibu said as he clung to and knelt before the senator.
“I want to assure our national chairman and all the people of APC that we have come to add value and it is time to take our state back,” Shaibu said.
Shaibu perfected his defection less than 24 hours after he said his spirit had left the PDP.
He rejoined the APC with leading members of the Dan Orbih-led Legacy Group.
TRENDING VIDEO: Moment Philip Shaibu knelt before Oshiomhole after perfecting his defection to APC
🎥: TVC News pic.twitter.com/PhZ40oGZi3
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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 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.
In the buildup to the 2020 Edo governorship election, the cordial relationship between Shaibu and Oshiomhole turned frosty.
Shaibu supported Obaseki against the wishes of Oshiomhole.
Oshiomhole was Shaibu’s political godfather at the time.
The relationship between Obaseki and Shaibu soured after the latter declared interest to contest the 2024 Edo governorship election.