‘Omobayo Remains Deputy Gov’ – Edo Govt Reacts To Philip Shaibu’s Victory In Court

The Edo State Government has reacted to a court ruling reinstating Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of the state.

Naija News reports that a Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday nullified the impeachment of Phillip Shuaibu as the Deputy Governor.

Justice James Omotosho ordered his reinstatement to office on the grounds that the Edo State House of Assembly failed to comply with due process in purporting to impeach Shuaibu.

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

The judge ordered the IGP to provide him with needed security to enable him resume office and perform the functions of the office until the end of his tenure.

Reacting in a statement to Naija News, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said Omobayo Marvellous Godwins, who Governor Godwin Obaseki replaced Shaibu with, will remain in his position pending the determination of the appeal filed by the government.

He said: “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 recognized as such.

“The government hereby calls on the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.”