Edo: ‘My Victory Lesson For People Who Think They Can Play God’ – Philip Shaibu

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice J.K. Omotosho, on Wednesday, reinstated Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.

This decision comes after Shaibu’s controversial impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly, a move that the judiciary has now overturned.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiena, Shaibu expressed his gratitude to the judiciary, describing the verdict as a triumph for democracy and the rule of law.

He emphasized that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man, reinforcing the critical role of the courts in upholding justice and fairness in the political landscape.

“This judgment is not just a personal victory but a victory for democracy and the rule of law in our beloved country. It reaffirms the importance of the judiciary as the bastion of hope for all citizens, especially in times of political trials and tribulations,” Shaibu stated.

Justice Omotosho, in his ruling, highlighted the irregularities and lack of due process in the impeachment proceedings.

He declared that the actions of the Edo State House of Assembly were in violation of constitutional mandates, thereby nullifying the impeachment and restoring Shaibu to his position.

Speaking on the court ruling, he said, “For us, it’s a victory for democracy and the rule of law. For mere mortals who think they can play God in the lives of others, this judgment serves as a lesson. He appoints kings and dethrons kings as it pleases Him. Those who have ears, let them hear.

“For the statement hurriedly issued by the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, we see it as an affront on the judiciary, a blatant attempt to ridicule the sound judgement delivered by the Honourable Justice Omotosho of the FCT Federal High Court.

“The statement smacks of arrogance of power on the part of the Edo State Government, by insisting that nothing has changed, Omobayo remains the Deputy Governor.

“Nehikhare and his co-travellers should be reminded that power is transient, especially for them with less than four months to vacate office.”