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Governor Obaseki To Shaibu: ‘Emilokan’ Won’t Work In 2024 Edo Election
Governor Obaseki To Shaibu: ‘Emilokan’ Won’t Work In 2024 Edo Election
OBASEKI: Emilokan, a Yoruba word that means “it is my turn”, was made popular by President Bola Tinubu during his campaign for the 2023 election.
The feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, has continued to degenerate, with the governor sending an apparent warning to Mr Shaibu that the “emilokan spirit” was unacceptable in the state’s politics.
Emilokan, a Yoruba word that means “it is my turn”, was made popular by President Bola Tinubu during his campaign for the 2023 election.
The ideology behind the word as used then by Mr Tinubu was that he had worked for President Muhammadu Buhari to become the first opposition leader to be elected Nigerian president, and therefore it was his (Tinubu’s) turn to be president after Mr Buhari.
“The ‘Emilokan’ syndrome or spirit is not a strategy for winning elections and ruling Edo people,” the governor of Edo was quoted as saying on Tuesday, according to a statement forwarded to PREMIUM TIMES by Crusoe Osagie, the special assistant on media project to the Edo State Government.
Mr Obaseki made the remarks when the leaders of the Edo South Senatorial District paid a solidarity visit to him in the Government House, Benin.
The governor said the Edo people would not accept “Emilokan” as a strategy.
“They are not known for that. For us, it is the people that will decide,” he said, apparently referring to his deputy, Mr Shaibu, who is said to be nursing the ambition to contest for the 2024 governorship election in the state.
In their days in the All Progressives Congress (APC), during the intense political fights between Mr Obaseki and his erstwhile benefactor, Adams Oshiomhole, Mr Shaibu stood solidly behind Governor Obaseki.
Mr Oshiomhole, who was the APC national chairman then, blocked Mr Obaseki from getting the APC governorship ticket for his reelection bid, forcing him to move to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mr Shaibu moved with the governor to the PDP, and both of them got a joint ticket and defeated the APC governorship candidate, Ize-Iyamu Osagie, to win the election.
By bringing up the emilokan, Governor Obaseki is probably telling Mr Shaibu not to feel that he is entitled to succeed him.
Mr Shaibu recently asked the court to stop an alleged plot by Governor Obaseki to remove him from office.
The governor, meanwhile, has accused Mr Shaibu of manipulating the youth council election in Edo because of his (Shaibu’s) political ambition.
“What has happened in the last few months is strange, and even if you have ambition, this is not the time to express it. The timetable for the election is not out. You can’t be part of a government and also be the one to destabilise the same government,” the Tuesday statement quoted Mr Obaseki as saying.
“I thought we came together and will leave together and let the people say you have done a great job, and they will now make the decision themselves. They are the ones to say that come rain or sunshine; we must continue.
“You are telling the world one thing and yet doing another. You are loyal to your principal, and yet you are in court with your principal. Everybody has the right to be ambitious but do it the right way.”
‘Making Shaibu visible is not a crime’
Governor Obaseki said people have been blaming him for allowing his deputy to be “visible” in the administration.
“Elevating a Deputy Governor and making him visible is not a crime. But this I did because I want to build institutions rather than individuals. To mistake that and misuse it is really unfortunate, as you have created the impression that the deputy governor should not be given responsibility.
“People are already blaming me now for giving him responsibility and visibility, and it’s my fault. How can it be my fault when you want to groom young people? I believe when young people work with you, give them opportunities and expose them, preparing them for leadership positions in life, praying they don’t abuse the privilege.
“I have no regret for exposing my deputy to power and leadership position. I have not made any mistakes, but he is the one that made the mistake. I hope he retraces his steps. He is the one that took me to court; he should be the one to talk to, not me. We are determined and focused to finish well, and with your support, we are sure to finish well,” the governor said.
Shaibu reacts
The deputy governor has, however, denied the existence of a rift between him and the governor.
According to a recent report by the Vanguard newspaper, Mr Shaibu said he remained loyal to Mr Obaseki and that “political jobbers” were trying to create a problem between him and the governor.
“Governor Obaseki and myself are committed to the continued development of Edo State.
“We are united in our determination to build a prosperous and inclusive society. I call on all well-meaning individuals to reject these divisive narratives and join in the quest to transform Edo State into a model of sustainable development and good governance. Edo State PDP politicians should embrace peace and seek unity to fight the common enemy,” Mr Shaibu was quoted as saying.
celebrity radar - gossips
Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda: General Buratai Remains Loyal, Rebuffs Misinformation – Engr Hassan
Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ Agenda: General Buratai Remains Loyal, Rebuffs Misinformation – Engr Hassan
Supporters of former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai, have dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that the retired army general is working against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement issued on Friday by Engr. Hassan Mohammed, Sarkin Yakin Garkuwan Keffi, the former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin was described as a committed statesman who remains loyal to constituted authority and dedicated to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
The statement noted that Buratai, who served as Chief of Army Staff and later as ambassador, had throughout his career demonstrated discipline, professionalism and respect for constitutional authority.
According to Mohammed, the retired lieutenant general has consistently expressed support for the Tinubu administration and its Renewed Hope agenda, particularly in the areas of national security, youth empowerment and national cohesion.
He said, “Gen. Buratai remains a committed Nigerian statesman who has always placed national interest above personal politics.”
The statement further described reports linking Buratai to alleged anti-government activities as “baseless, politically motivated and aimed at creating unnecessary division.”
Mohammed urged Nigerians to disregard what he called attempts at blackmail and misinformation, insisting that Buratai’s public record and engagements reflect his continued support for the current administration.
“His actions and public record speak louder than online rumours,” the statement added.
The supporters also called on the public to remain focused on issues that promote national development and unity rather than social media speculation.
celebrity radar - gossips
General Buratai Backs Son’s Political Ambition, Calls For Greater Youth Inclusion In Governance
General Buratai Backs Son’s Political Ambition, Calls For Greater Youth Inclusion In Governance
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has urged Nigerians to support young people in pursuing their dreams and taking active roles in politics, as he publicly endorsed the political ambition of his son, Tukur Buratai Jnr.
Buratai, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, made the call in a statement shared on his verified Facebook page, where he expressed support for his son’s decision to contest for the Biu Constituency seat in the Borno State House of Assembly under the platform of the All Progressives Congress�.
According to the retired military chief, Nigeria’s future depends largely on its youthful population, stressing that excluding young people from governance and leadership would hinder national growth and development.
He noted that Nigerian youths should not merely be regarded as leaders of tomorrow, but as active contributors and solution providers capable of shaping the country’s future today.
Buratai further emphasized the need to create opportunities and an enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive politically, economically, and socially, describing youth inclusion as critical to nation-building.
The endorsement of Captain Buratai Jnr, a pilot, is being viewed by political observers as a symbolic transfer of leadership ideals, discipline, and patriotism from one generation to another.
His candidacy is also expected to inject youthful energy and fresh perspectives into legislative representation in Biu Constituency ahead of future political contests.
As preparations gradually begin towards the next electoral cycle, Buratai’s message is likely to resonate among young Nigerians seeking greater participation in governance and public service.
celebrity radar - gossips
Buratai Celebrates Ex-Internal Affairs Minister, General Magoro, At 85
Buratai Celebrates Ex-Internal Affairs Minister, General Magoro, At 85
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusufu Buratai, has paid glowing tribute to retired Major General Muhammadu Magoro on the occasion of his 85th birthday, describing him as “a national hero and a general par excellence.”
In a congratulatory message issued on Thursday, Buratai hailed Magoro’s decades of service to Nigeria, noting that his military and political careers remained a model of patriotism, discipline, and leadership.
Magoro, who holds the traditional title of Mutawallen of Kebbi Kingdom, served as a commander during the Nigerian Civil War, later becoming Minister of Internal Affairs and a senator during the Second Republic.
Buratai said the retired general’s contributions to national development and security had earned him recognition both within and outside Nigeria.
He also acknowledged Magoro’s role in mentoring younger military officers, including himself, stressing that the elder statesman’s guidance and professional conduct had inspired generations of military leaders.
The former army chief recalled recently reconnecting with Magoro during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Arewa Consultative Forum in Kaduna, describing the meeting as symbolic of the enduring bond among those who had served the nation selflessly.
“As you mark this 85th birthday, I pray that Almighty Allah continues to bless you with good health, peace of mind, and many more fruitful years,” Buratai stated.
He further noted that Magoro’s legacy would continue to inspire future leaders across military and civilian institutions in the country.
Buratai concluded the message by wishing the elder statesman a memorable celebration, declaring that “Nigeria salutes” him for his sacrifices and enduring service to the nation.
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