Victor Ofure Osehobo
Not a few Nigerians of EDO origin are happy with the tone of governance in Edo state. Since Governor Godwin Obaseki announced last year that governance will take back stage so he can have time for the general elections which his party lost woefully, the situation has not changed.
Certainly Obaseki’s tenure in Edo State has been marked by various challenges and controversies. Over the years, criticisms against his performance as the governor have continuously pointed towards a lack of viable solutions to the problems facing the state.
However, a recent development has brought an unexpected twist to the political landscape, as an apparent rift between Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, strategically designed by the duo, has captured the attention and diverted the focus of the Edo people from the governor’s controversial track record.
I will try to explain toohow Governor Obaseki, after placing governance on the back stage, is utilizing the friction between him and his deputy as a diversionary tactic.
Governance on the Backstage:
First and foremost, it is necessary to acknowledge the numerous governance issues that have plagued Governor Obaseki’s seven-year tenure. Edo State has faced significant challenges in various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and job creation. Despite promises of transformation and development during his campaigns, Obaseki’s performance has fallen short of expectations, leaving the masses disillusioned and dissatisfied.
Aiming to Shift the Narrative:
The emergence of a rift between Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, has provided the governor with an opportune moment to divert public attention away from his governance failures. By bringing the altercation to the forefront, Obaseki hopes to shift the narrative in order to create an atmosphere of controversy and conflict that eclipses Edo State’s significant governance challenges and his own inadequacies.
1 Diversionary Tactics and Politicization of Personal Differences:
Obaseki’s administration has focused heavily on personalizing the conflicts with Shaibu, portraying them as a clash of egos rather than addressing substantive governance issues. This strategy aims to create distractions by publicizing personal disputes, effectively diverting attention from the issues plaguing the state.
2. Media Manipulation:
The governor’s team has utilized the media to sensationalize the disagreement between Obaseki and Shaibu, ensuring it remains a topic of discussion and news headlines. This concerted effort to dominate media narratives helps to deflect away from criticisms of poor governance and inefficiency, reinforcing the diversionary tactic at play.
3. Political Drama as Distraction: By orchestrating a public spectacle filled with intense confrontations and strained relationships, Obaseki has successfully captivated public attention. This political drama serves as a distraction, drawing focus away from his failure to deliver on his campaign promises and the pressing issues impacting the lives of the Edo people.
Consequence of Diversionary Tactics:
Diverting attention from governance failures has profound consequences for the Edo people. The state’s pressing issues, such as the inadequate healthcare system, dilapidated infrastructure etc, are left unaddressed. Additionally, the diversionary tactics employed by Obaseki undermine public trust in political leadership, perpetuating a cycle of disillusionment and complacency.
Governor Godwin Obaseki’s utilization of the rift between him and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, as a diversionary tactic to divert attention from his poor performance in Edo State exemplifies the inherent flaws of his governance. It is crucial for the citizens of Edo State to remain vigilant, to see beyond Obaseki’s political drama, and to demand effective governance that prioritizes their well-being and addresses their needs. The forthcoming local government council elections is a good opportunity to do this.
*Osehobo is Assistant State Publicity Secretary of the APC in Edo state*