By Felix Khanoba
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has again condemned the role being played by Edo State deputy governor, Comrade Philip Shuaibu, in fueling the political crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
The students’ body which described Shaibu as an ingrate, said the deputy governor penchant for insulting the former governor of the state and APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, has become an embarrassment.
A statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja and signed by NANS’ Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Azeez, said Shaibu continued to fuel the crisis despite the association’s appeal that he should seek reconciliation with his estranged benefactor, Oshiomhole.
The statement read : “Today, I restate the earlier call having found out that the primary source of the political crisis rests with Comrade Phillip Shuaibu.
“To be frank, the deputy governor’s attitude leading to barrage of insults and condemnation of the former governor is nothing but an adventurous eyesore. The entire comrade community is not only embarrassed by his actions but sees such as an act of ingratitude.
“For the record, without the support and mentorship of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, comrade Phillip Shuaibu wouldn’t be where he is today from house of assembly to house of representatives to becoming the Deputy Governor of one of the most civilized states in Nigeria.
“It’s also worthy to mention how Oshiomole gave Shuaibu a face in life and making him a rallying point for his peers, friends and even elders. All of these have made Shuaibu who he is today politically and economically.
“It is therefore our duty to call him to order in the overall interest of Edo people and importantly, for upcoming young leaders to be accorded a place of trust in climbing the political ladder.”
While saying Shuaibu, who is a former president of NANS, has penciled down certain members of the body for revenge for daring to speak out on the issue, the association called on him to embrace peace instead of fomenting troubles.
“We reiterate that comrades are renowned for their forthrightness, courage and respect for elders. How our brother and former leader drove himself to this height of needless disrespect is surprising and we shall continue to condemn his actions.
“We call on the Edo State governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki to see beyond the antics of his deputy and reconcile with his predecessor. As a gentleman that he is, he should take the bull by the horns and move quickly in dousing the tension pervading the political landscape in Edo state before it goes beyond redemption.
“If Shuaibu can come against who gave him life, he could do worse to you tomorrow,” the statement added.
