Dr. Udoh Oberaifo, the Gubernatorial Candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, has strongly criticized the recent impeachment of deputy governor Philip Shaibu by the Edo House of Assembly. The impeachment, which was based on allegations of revealing government secrets, has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the lack of due process.
In a statement in Benin, Mr. Oberaifo emphasized that regardless of the charges against Mr. Shaibu, proper procedures were not followed. He pointed out that Shaibu was not given a fair hearing and described the impeachment as a clear violation of the principles of justice. The fact that the impeachment proceeded despite a pending case filed by the deputy governor at the Federal High court raised doubts about the motives behind the rushed proceedings.
Mr. Oberaifo also raised alarm over the alleged connection between the Labour Party (LP) and the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. He highlighted that the new deputy governor, Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, was a card-carrying member of LP and had not resigned his membership at the time of his swearing-in, which he claimed was a violation of the Electoral Act 2022. This, according to Mr. Oberaifo, demonstrates collusion between the LP and PDP to consolidate power.
The AAC candidate condemned the political maneuvering and warned against the influence of godfatherism in Edo politics. He called on the people of Edo state to reject the PDP and LP in the upcoming elections in September 2024 and to consider the AAC as a viable alternative. Mr. Oberaifo urged the people to support the AAC’s programs, visions, and manifestos, and to cast their votes for him as the next governor of the state.
It is clear that the political landscape in Edo state is fraught with controversy and power struggles, and the upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the future direction of the state. Mr. Oberaifo’s strong stance against injustice and his call for transparency and accountability in governance resonate with many who seek change and progress in the region.
