Shaibu at 52: fulfilling divine purpose

Posted by admin Edo, Headlines, State News Wednesday, December 1st, 2021

By AUSTIN OTAS – OSEGBE

Like the proverbial golden fish that has no hiding place, the Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, Edo State Deputy Governor needs little or no introduction by virtue of his antecedents as a vibrant activist in students’ unionism which dates back to the dark days of the military dictatorship, especially during the era of Abacha Must Go. In fact, it is no exaggeration to say that the name Philip Shaibu is a household in Nigeria. Of the 36 Deputy Governors across the States, the name stands out.

For this rare gift of divinity to humanity, the first day of December every year has become so significant in his eventful years on earth for the celebration of his birthday anniversary by family members, admirers, friends and associates. His golden age two years ago was understandably celebrated with funfare. Today’s celebration like that of 2020 will be low-key; purely dedicated to praise, worship and appreciate God in his life. Shaibu’s modest achievements in life so far can be attributed to his humble beginning, deeply rooted on good upbringing by his parents of blessed memory. His father was a Pastor in the vineyard of God, while his mother was a trained teacher. No wonder, he is a core disciplinarian, workaholic, diligent and God-fearing in all he does. Though very tough and a near-perfectionist, he is humble, humane and generous to a fault. Shaibu is reputed to be a highly detribalized Nigerian, who entrusts people with tasks and responsibilities – irrespective of tribe, sex or religion – provided you can deliver on the assignment. Of the three major Nigerian tribes, he speaks Hausa and Yoruba fluently. A man of the people, he connects very well with the grassroots. He is unconditionally loved by his people. Any time he travelled to his hometown in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area, on private or official trip, it could best be described as the biblical triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. The people, young and old, troop out in their numbers, lining the roadsides all the way from Agbede to give a rousing welcome to their own son, regardless of the weather.

-Sun

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