According to Punch Newspaper, Philip Shaibu, the immediate past deputy governor of Edo State, has expressed his willingness to mend fences with his former mentor and political heavyweight, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. In a heartfelt statement, Shaibu apologized for the harsh language he used during their 2020 political fallout. He revealed his intent to reconnect with Oshiomhole, acknowledging the significant influence Oshiomhole has had on his political career and personal growth.
Shaibu emphasized that while he does not regret the actions that led to their separation, he credits Oshiomhole with shaping his political fight against entrenched godfather politics in the state. He recognized that his past confrontations with Oshiomhole stemmed from a place of principle, based on disagreements over the direction Oshiomhole was taking at the time. Despite the conflicts, Shaibu holds a deep respect for Oshiomhole, referring to him as a father figure and a mentor from whom he has learned much.
Looking ahead, Shaibu is optimistic about the prospects of working together again with Oshiomhole. He stated that reuniting with him "will be interesting," signaling a potential reconciliation that could have significant implications for their political endeavors in Edo State. Shaibu's public apology and outreach to Oshiomhole suggest a move towards unity and collaboration in the region's political landscape.
He said: I am ready. I have also consistently apologised to Comrade, and I am using this avenue to do so again over what happened in 2020, especially the language I used during that period. I look at some of the videos and the only thing I can do is apologise. However, I don’t regret the action I took because Oshiomhole is the one who led us to fight against godfathers. I felt what he was trying to do at that time was wrong. Reuniting with him will be interesting. Even amid the fight, I have maintained that he is my father. I will reunite with him sooner or later. He is also my mentor. So, a lot of things that I do, I learnt from him.