On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the lower court’s decision to reinstate Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.
The appellate court dismissed the appeal from the Edo State House of Assembly, which sought to confirm Shaibu’s impeachment.
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Shaibu had been impeached on April 8, 2024, after a seven-man committee, appointed by the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, investigated allegations of misconduct against him.
House Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghian stated that although the panel’s report did not substantiate the perjury charges against Shaibu, it did find him guilty of disclosing government secrets.
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On July 17, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja nullified the impeachment and ordered Philip Shaibu’s immediate reinstatement.
Justice Omotosho ruled that the grounds for the impeachment, as cited by the House of Assembly, were legally insufficient and amounted to gross misconduct.
He directed the Inspector-General of Police to ensure Shaibu received the necessary security to resume his duties and fulfill his responsibilities until the end of his term.
The court warned that anyone other than Shaibu claiming to be the deputy governor would face legal consequences.
Additionally, the court nullified the appointment of Omobayo Godwin as the new deputy governor, who had been installed to replace Shaibu.
