The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal has rejected the appeal lodged by the Edo State House of Assembly, reinforcing Comrade Philip Shaibu’s status as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. This ruling reaffirms a previous decision made by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which deemed Shaibu’s impeachment invalid and mandated his prompt reinstatement.
This legal turn of events follows Shaibu’s contentious impeachment on April 8, where the Edo State House of Assembly accused him of perjury and disclosing confidential government information.
However, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court found that the impeachment procedure lacked adherence to legal protocols, leading to his order for Shaibu’s reinstatement.
In its judgment, the Court of Appeal cautioned that anyone other than Shaibu attempting to claim the title of Deputy Governor would face legal repercussions. Furthermore, the court invalidated the appointment of Omobayo Godwins, who had been designated as Shaibu’s successor after the impeachment.
The court also mandated the Inspector General of Police to ensure that Shaibu receives adequate security as he resumes his responsibilities as Deputy Governor until the conclusion of his term.
This ruling has heightened the already fraught political atmosphere in Edo State, characterized by ongoing disputes among the state’s leadership.
In a video shared online, Shaibu hailed the ruling as a victory for democracy, emphasizing the importance of due process and the rule of law.
