By Milcah Tanimu

Philip Shaibu, the recently ousted deputy governor of Edo State, took a jab at Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, suggesting that if elected, Ighodalo might require an interpreter to communicate effectively with the people. Shaibu made these remarks during a gathering of Edo Central PDP leaders and stakeholders in Irrua, the administrative hub of Esan Central Local Government Area.

Shaibu emphasized the importance of a governor who understands the local dialect, stating that anyone unable to speak the Edo language shouldn’t lead the state. He expressed his support for a candidate who resonates with the aspirations of the populace and criticized the idea of a candidate relying on an interpreter, deeming them unfit to represent the people.

The criticism stems from a previous incident where Ighodalo used an interpreter to address his kinsmen in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area, when vying for the PDP ticket. In a video circulated, Ighodalo addressed the crowd in English while an interpreter translated his words into the Esan language.

Adding to the turmoil within the party, Dan Orbih, the National Vice Chairman of the PDP for the South-South Zone, voiced his discontent, refusing to campaign for the party until internal issues are resolved. Orbih criticized the treatment of party members following Godwin Obaseki’s reelection, expressing concern over the party’s future if such grievances persist.