“Edo Guber: Shaibu Claims PDP Candidate Asue Ighodalo is Rejected by Locals Over Language Barrier”
Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu of Edo State has raised concerns about the acceptance of Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming September 21, 2024, gubernatorial election. In a recent appearance on Channels TV, Shaibu alleged that Ighodalo is not well-received by the local population, particularly his own community, because he is unable to speak their native language.
Shaibu, who is a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape, suggested that this language barrier has led to a lack of support for Ighodalo in his home area of Ewohimi. He argued that the candidate’s inability to communicate in the local dialect undermines his connection with the electorate, which could significantly impact his chances in the election.
The Deputy Governor also expressed confidence that Ighodalo, who is endorsed by the incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki, will face defeat at the polls. Shaibu suggested that the upcoming election will test Obaseki’s political influence and described the 2020 election as having been won by Obaseki due to sympathy from the electorate, who perceived him as being unfairly targeted.
Shaibu’s remarks highlight a contentious political climate in Edo State as the gubernatorial election approaches, with language and local acceptance emerging as key issues in the campaign.