The Federal High Court in Abuja has summoned Edo Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo to appear on November 26 to address allegations of contempt following his refusal to vacate his position after a previous court ruling. Presiding over the matter, Justice James Omotosho ruled on Monday that Omobayo must attend in person to ensure he receives a fair hearing and can present his defense, in line with Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.
The case was initiated by reinstated Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, who alleges that Omobayo disregarded a July 17 judgment which voided Shaibu’s impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly. Justice Omotosho had ruled at that time that Shaibu’s impeachment was legally flawed, citing a lack of due process and insufficient grounds for gross misconduct. Consequently, the court ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement.
Omobayo was sworn in as deputy governor on April 8, following Shaibu’s impeachment by the Assembly. However, Shaibu successfully contested the impeachment, and a contempt charge was subsequently filed, seeking Omobayo’s imprisonment over his refusal to step down.
During Monday’s proceedings, several key parties, including Shaibu’s counsel Ayotunde Ogunleye (SAN) and representatives of the Edo House of Assembly and the Edo Chief Judge, were present. However, Omobayo and several other defendants were absent. Ogunleye emphasized that Omobayo’s disregard for the court’s orders was unacceptable, prompting an oral application for Omobayo’s personal appearance.
Justice Omotosho granted this request, adjourning the matter to November 26 and instructing that hearing notices be sent to all involved defendants. He reiterated that Omobayo’s appearance is necessary to uphold justice and provide him the opportunity for a fair defense.
The court’s ruling comes at a critical time, as the current Edo State administration’s term is set to end on November 12.
