Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has sought forgiveness and reconciliation from his principal governor, Godwin Obaseki.

Shaibu made the apology shortly after his investiture as the grand patron of the Catholic Men’s Organisation (CMO) of the Catholic Archdioceses of Benin on Thursday.

The deputy governor, who has been at the centre of political tension in the state, used the occasion to address the strained relationship between him and Governor Obaseki.

“Like I have always said, I am a loyal servant, and there is nothing that has changed. I took a vow to support my governor, and that is what I will do,” Shaibu declared during his public statement.

“As you can see, the Catholic people are here. I can only wish that the relationship we had is sustained. I prayed and know that in the next few weeks, it will come back.”

He also expressed his earnest desire to repair the strained relationship between him and Governor Obaseki, affirming his loyalty and goodwill.

“I am missing my governor, and I prayed that God will touch my governor’s heart and the hearts of those that are trying to come in between us to know that I mean well,” Shaibu stated.

Shaibu admitted that any actions he might have taken that led to the discord were not motivated by wickedness, asserting that “if there is any mistake I have made, I am just human and did not act out of wickedness because I am not wicked and I have a clean heart.”

While extending forgiveness for any perceived wrongdoings, he urged Governor Obaseki to the need for unity and collaboration in developing the state.

“I used this medium to appeal to Mr. Governor that if there is any mistake I have made or if there is anything that I have done that I do not know of, he should please forgive me so that we can develop our state together,” he implored.

“So, Mr. Governor, if there is anything wrong you feel I have done, please, I am sorry, and I need us to work together to finish well and strong because that is my prayer for you.”

Shaibu also disclosed that he had already resumed his duties in his new office, as directed by Governor Obaseki.