Political stakeholders in Edo have commended Godwin Obaseki, the Edo State Governor over his choice of Engr. Omobayo Marvellous Godwin as the new deputy governor of the state. The appointment of the 38-year-old engineer came after the impeachment of Comrade Philip Shaibu by the State House of Assembly due to gross misconduct.
Engr. Omobayo was sworn in on Monday afternoon, and stakeholders who commented on the development commended Governor Obaseki for achieving three strategic political objectives simultaneously with this appointment.
Speaking in Benin, Martins Onaivi, a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oredo, described the decision as excellent, emphasizing that it addressed the need to ensure fair political representation for Edo North.
“The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has made a fantastic choice. The youth are delighted and excited. Bringing one of them on board as the new deputy governor demonstrates the governor’s great respect for the youth in the state and their capacity to accomplish tasks,” said Onaivi.
“In addition to the youth perspective, the new deputy governor will bring his political base as an Obidient. This signifies a union between the People’s Democratic Party and the Obidients, marking a new era of political alignment in Edo. He contested as the Labour Party candidate for Akoko Edo Federal Constituency, and this bodes well for the state’s growth and development.”
“Furthermore, with the selection of Omobayo, Edo North as a geopolitical zone has not been neglected in the grand scheme of things. The former deputy governor hails from Edo North, and the new deputy governor is also from the same senatorial district. While the local governments may differ, the crucial point is that the senatorial district still maintains the position of the deputy governor,” he added.
Another stakeholder, Stanley Emone, echoed Onaivi’s sentiments, stating that Governor Obaseki made the right decision. He advised the new deputy governor not to allow the power of his new office to corrupt him.
“Engr. Omobayo Godwins, the new deputy governor, should learn from the mistakes of his predecessor. He must not let the powers of the office intoxicate him,” Emone advised.
Omobayo is an engineer with a notable track record of progressive professional experience in the oil and gas sector. Born on July 19, 1986, he hails from Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the State.
He holds a B.Eng Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and an M.Sc in Public Administration from the University of Benin (UNIBEN). His professional expertise and background in public administration make him well-suited for the role.
Omobayo is a registered member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). He has also been actively involved in politics in his local government. He is well known in his locality as a trusted politician who mobilizes young and old people for common causes, even breaking political barriers to the dismay of his opponents.