A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing for October 24 regarding a contempt charge brought by Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, against Godwins Omobayo. The charge stems from Omobayo’s alleged noncompliance with a court ruling.
During a session, Justice James Omotosho confirmed the date after Shaibu’s attorney, Reuben Egwuaba, informed the court about the contempt proceedings aimed at imprisoning Omobayo for his failure to adhere to a valid court order.
Justice Omotosho instructed that all relevant court documents, including Form 49 submitted on September 19, be served to Omobayo, granting him a chance to address the contempt allegation.
“The hearing is adjourned to October 24 for the motion on notice dated September 13 and filed on September 19, pertaining to the committal of Engr. Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, allowing him to present his defense,” the judge stated.
Previously, Egwuaba requested a brief adjournment, noting that the current administration’s tenure concludes on November 12.
He clarified that the court ruling from July 17 had been duly delivered to Omobayo, along with multiple letters sent to the House of Assembly, all to no avail.
On the same day, Justice Omotosho dismissed two motions filed by the Edo State Government and the House of Assembly contesting Shaibu’s reinstatement. The judge imposed a cost of N200,000 on both the state government and the assembly.
This legal action followed a request from the Attorney-General of Edo State, Marvin Omorogbe, and House of Assembly attorney, Sonia Egbunia, who sought to withdraw the motions for a stay of execution, citing the ongoing appeals process.
