‘Godwins remains deputy gov’: Edo govt appeals Shaibu’s reinstatement

The Edo State Government says Omobayo Godwins remains and will continue to serve as the deputy governor of the state pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgement that faulted the impeachment of the former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu.

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, nullified Shaibu’s impeachment as the deputy governor of Edo State.

Presiding judge Justice James Omotosho ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement to office on the grounds that the Edo State House of Assembly failed to comply with due process in the purported impeachment.

Justice Omotosho held that the allegation on which the House based the impeachment proceedings was untenable in law and did not constitute gross misconduct.

The judge, therefore, ordered the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to provide Shaibu with needed security to enable him to resume office and perform the functions of the office until the end of his tenure.

Impeachment: Court orders Shaibu’s reinstatement as Edo deputy governor

Justice Omotosho equally set aside the appointment of another deputy governor in place of Shaibu.

Reacting via a statement, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said the state government has filed a stay of execution on the judgement.

Nehikhare noted: “Following the Federal High Court, Abuja judgement that faulted the impeachment of the erstwhile deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government has filed a stay of execution of the judgement.

“Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgement, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Omobayo Marvellous Godwins, remains and continues to serve as the valid Deputy Governor of Edo State.

“He will continue to serve in this capacity and would be recognised as such.”

The commissioner further urged the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses in the state.

The Star