Tensions have risen within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etsako West Chapter, Edo State, as members strongly oppose the rumored return of impeached Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu to the party.
Protesters representing all 12 wards within the council area converged at the party’s local secretariat on Tuesday, presenting a petition outlining their concerns about Shaibu’s potential comeback. Yakubu Musa, acting as the spokesperson for APC stakeholders in Etsako West LGA, delivered a communique expressing their stance on the matter.
Musa emphasized that Shaibu’s departure from the APC in 2020 had brought about peace and stability within the party, which they fear would be disrupted by his return. The communique issued during the protest stated, “We protest against the impeached deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, attempting to defect back to the APC. Our members see this as a deliberate move to sow discord, disharmony, and crisis within the APC.”
The protesters urged key party figures, including National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and State Acting Chairman Jaret Tenebe, to reject Shaibu’s re-access into the APC. They argued that Shaibu lacks electoral appeal and would not contribute to the party’s success.
Musa highlighted, “Philip Shaibu has not won any election since leaving the APC for the PDP. He does not bring any electoral value that justifies his readmission into our party.”
Members of the APC in Etsako West LGA firmly believe that Shaibu’s return would lead to internal strife, division, and potentially dissolve the unity within the party’s local chapter. “We urge our national leaders to heed our call and help us maintain harmony in Edo APC. Allowing Shaibu back would only bring chaos, fragmentation, and widespread discontent,” the communique concluded.
The opposition within the Etsako West Chapter underscores the challenges facing the APC as it navigates internal dynamics and prepares for future political engagements in Edo State.
