Deep breath…Obaseki seems to have begun a self-cleansing that we are at a loss on what he really wants to do.
But one thing we know is that Obaseki has surely declared a war against the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, the FANTASTIC four contestants and his own cabinet.
In a meeting held recently, Obaseki was quoted as saying any primaries to be conducted by APC that is not certain to produce him as the consensus candidate can not be held in the state.
The Governor who was visibly angry warned the APC leaders that if they are not discussing his consensus candidacy then the State would be too hot to accommodate them.
Obaseki who seems embarrassed with the resignation of his erstwhile Chief Of Staff, Taiwo Akerele is currently on a self-cleansing.
Obaseki has reportedly fired Several Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants attached to the office of the Governor, Chief of Staff, Secretary to State Government, as well as Commissioners and Head of Agencies.
Before now Obaseki removed the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu as the state chairman of the COVID-19 response committee.
This stunt is seen as a direct affront on Philip Shaibu who the Governor has accused of bringing him to this current mess he has with Adams Oshiomhole, the party and everyone else.
The sacking of his aides which many see as a very vague political move could mean two things practically.
It is either Obaseki is on a self-cleansing mode in preparation for the forthcoming election or he’s ready to throw in the towel and go back to Lagos Nov 11 2020.
Now, this is how the two moves would probably play out.
Self Cleansing.
You must give Obaseki credit for his ability to work alone and in the dark.
Obaseki is always interested in the DIGITS(cost) than political considerations.
He intends to stop all the benefits accruing to these special aides and political appointees and channel them to his reelection bid.
The Governor ordered everybody working in the Government house OUT apart from principal officers.
It is rumoured that even his Abba Kyari in Dennis Osadebe Avenue, the all-powerful Tijani Nwadei was affected by the directives.
Rumours have it that the government could re-invite those it considers loyal to the administration after profiling, cross-examination and additional vetting.
His next line of action can not be ascertained but we feel Obaseki might have an ace up his sleeve set to be deployed soon.
The second option is to throw in the towel and jettison his reelection bid.
This last option coming from the highly VINDICTIVE governor would consume everyone that practically worked with him.
Option two should get everyone worrisome as Obaseki would strike from Philip Shaibu down, through the SSG to the Councillors in the Local Councils.
Underrating Obaseki is the last thing anyone at all should consider. Seen as stubborn, rugged and affirmative in decisions Obaseki is dogged and ruthless.
As for the APC as a party if they underestimate Obaseki’s threats then they should be ready for a ZAMFARA treatment.
With Obaseki’s second option be rest assured everyone would go down with him and finally the party APC.
Already Philip Shaibu has boasted publicly that without his support for Obaseki there would be trouble for the embattled Governor.
Edo residents are looking up to the SKY expecting HEAVEN to fall down.
‘Make we see weda Heaven go fall come ground as Obaseki don vex, make we see who and who Oga wake and sleep wan destroy, Siddon look na dog name.’
That was how a government appointee who was relieved of his duties was quoted as saying.
The coming days would reveal the line of direction of Godwin Obaseki.
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah writes in from Benin City.