In a significant legal victory, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the reinstatement of Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, dismissing an appeal by the Edo State House of Assembly. The appellate court’s decision comes as a crucial moment in the political landscape of Edo State, where Shaibu had been previously impeached in April 2024 over allegations of misconduct.
Appeal Court Overturns Impeachment, Solidifies Shaibu’s Position
The judgment delivered on Tuesday by the Appeal Court has solidified Philip Shaibu’s position as the legitimate deputy governor of Edo State. The court dismissed the appeal lodged by the Edo State House of Assembly, which sought to uphold Shaibu’s impeachment. The Assembly had acted on the findings of a seven-man committee established by the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, which accused Shaibu of disclosing government secrets.
However, the court found the impeachment proceedings legally untenable. The Appeal Court backed the earlier ruling by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which had voided Shaibu’s impeachment on July 17, 2024. Justice Omotosho ruled that the grounds for Shaibu’s impeachment did not meet the legal threshold for gross misconduct under the law. The court had also ordered Shaibu’s immediate reinstatement and directed the Inspector-General of Police to ensure his security so he could resume his official duties.
Repercussions of the Ruling: A Blow to Edo House of Assembly
The appellate court’s ruling not only reinstated Shaibu but also nullified the appointment of Omobayo Godwin, who had been installed as the new deputy governor following Shaibu’s impeachment. The court’s decision is a major setback for the Edo State House of Assembly, which had taken steps to solidify Shaibu’s removal from office. The ruling effectively reasserts Shaibu’s authority and warns that any individual claiming to be the deputy governor, aside from Shaibu, would face legal consequences.
The political tussle in Edo State, marked by this impeachment and subsequent court rulings, underscores the ongoing power struggle within the state’s government. The dismissal of the appeal is seen as a critical win for Shaibu, who has had a rocky relationship with some members of the state’s political elite. His reinstatement may lead to further political recalibrations as the state gears up for future elections.
Political Implications: Shaibu’s Path Forward
Philip Shaibu’s reinstatement as deputy governor comes after months of political and legal battles that have drawn significant attention. The Appeal Court’s decision is not just a personal victory for Shaibu but also sends a clear message about the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law. It serves as a reminder that legal processes cannot be circumvented through political maneuvering.
With his position secured, Shaibu is expected to focus on stabilizing his role within the Edo State government and mending fences with political allies. The outcome of this case could also have broader implications for governance and the balance of power in Edo State, potentially influencing the dynamics of future political contests.
The court’s ruling has set a precedent that could discourage similar attempts at politically motivated impeachments in the future, emphasizing the judiciary’s role as a check on legislative and executive actions.
Source: Punch
