By Becky usman

Governor Godwin Obaseki has unequivocally stated his impartial stance regarding the choice of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) flagbearer in the upcoming Edo governorship election.

Ahead of the election, Governor Obaseki emphasized that he does not have a favored candidate among those vying to succeed him as his tenure nears its conclusion. He clarified that the decision on the PDP’s flagbearer rests solely with the party itself.

This declaration was made following a closed-door meeting with Governor Bala Mohammed, the chairman of the PDP governors forum, in Bauchi. The meeting, held at Rahmat House, an extension of the Bauchi Government House, also included the presence of former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Gabriel Emmanuel. However, specific details of the discussions remain undisclosed at the time of this report.

Governor Obaseki took the opportunity to address lingering speculations about his relationship with his deputy, Philip Shaibu, who has expressed interest in succeeding him. Obaseki affirmed that their relationship is amicable, emphasizing Shaibu’s constitutional right to run for the office.

In response to insinuations about not supporting his deputy’s ambition, Governor Obaseki stated, “My relationship with Shaibu is cordial. He wants to run for the office I currently occupy, and I think, as a Nigerian, he has the constitutional right to run; nobody can stop him.”

Furthermore, Obaseki highlighted that the ultimate decision on the PDP flagbearer for the gubernatorial election rests with the party and its members in Edo State. He concluded by emphasizing the collective role of party members in determining the flagbearer, asserting, “I don’t think my vote alone will determine who becomes the party’s flagbearer.”