The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld the earlier judgment reinstating Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.
The appellate court delivered its verdict on Tuesday, dismissing the appeal filed by the Edo State House of Assembly which sought to maintain Shaibu’s impeachment.
Shaibu was impeached on April 8, 2024, following a report from a seven-man committee established by the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, which investigated allegations of misconduct against him. Despite the committee’s findings that Shaibu was guilty of disclosing government secrets, it was unable to substantiate the charge of perjury.
On July 17, 2024, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja had annulled the impeachment, ruling that the grounds for Shaibu’s removal were legally untenable and constituted gross misconduct. The court ordered Shaibu’s immediate reinstatement and instructed the Inspector-General of Police to ensure his security as he resumed office.
Justice Omotosho’s ruling also declared that anyone other than Shaibu claiming the office of Deputy Governor would face legal action and nullified the appointment of Omobayo Godwin as the new deputy governor.
This decision reaffirms Shaibu’s position and marks a significant development in the ongoing political dispute within Edo State.