The impeachment process against Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, has taken a significant step forward as the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, has formed a seven-member panel to investigate allegations of constitutional breaches leveled against him.
In an official statement dated March 22, 2024, and signed by the Registrar of the Edo State Judiciary, Benson Osagie Osawaru, it was revealed that the panel, chaired by retired Justice S.A. Omonua, comprises prominent figures including Professors Violet Aigbokhaevbo, Boniface Onomion Edegbai, and Theresa Akpoghome, alongside Mr. Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, Dr. Andrew Oliha, and Mr. Idris Abdulkareen.
The statement cited Section 188(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the basis for the Chief Judge’s action, affirming the legality of the panel’s establishment. Its primary task is to investigate the allegations outlined in the impeachment notice against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.
The move comes in the wake of a resolution passed by the Edo State House of Assembly on March 19, 2024, where 19 out of the 24 members directed the Chief Judge to initiate the formation of the investigative panel.
However, Shaibu swiftly responded to the Assembly’s action by filing an ex-parte motion at an Abuja Federal High Court on the same day. Represented by his lawyer, Professor Oladoyin Awoyale, the Deputy Governor sought to restrain the Assembly, the Chief Judge, and Governor Godwin Obaseki from furthering the impeachment process until the court resolves the underlying legal issues.
While the court, presided over by Justice James Omotoso, declined to grant Shaibu’s request immediately, it ordered that all parties involved be officially notified of the pending legal proceedings. Additionally, the court granted the request for substituted service and adjourned the case until April 15, 2024, signaling the beginning of a legal battle over the impeachment proceedings.
As the investigation unfolds and legal maneuvers continue, the political landscape in Edo State remains tense, with stakeholders closely monitoring the developments surrounding Deputy Governor Shaibu’s fate.
