Courts nullifies Edo deputy Gov’s Impeachment
Phillip Shuaibu’s impeachment as the deputy governor of Edo State was revoked on Wednesday by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
As part of the litigation, Justice Omotosho issued an order for Shaibu’s reinstatement, citing the Edo State House of Assembly’s disregard for due process in its impeachment of him.
The appointment of the new Deputy Governor, who succeeded Shaibu, was also overturned by Justice Omotosho.
The House of Assembly’s impeachment proceedings were founded on an allegation that the court said was legally untenable and did not amount to gross misconduct.
He directed the Inspector General of Police to give him the protection he needs so he can return to work and carry out his official duties till the end of tenure.
Shuaibu was impeached on April 8th, 2024 during the House’s plenary session in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, in a step that began months ago as a result of the strained relationship between Obaseki and Shuaibu.
His impeachment came after the report of a seven-man committee appointed by Edo State’s chief judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, to probe charges of misconduct against the deputy governor.
According to the reports, the seven-man judicial panel of investigation recommended impeachment of the deputy governor for disclosing official secrets.
Eighteen of the 19 members present in plenary voted to impeach the deputy governor, with one abstaining from the head count and voting.
