The Federal High Court in Abuja has made a decision regarding the impeachment proceedings against Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu. The court declined to halt the impeachment process initiated by the Edo State House of Assembly, despite a request from Shaibu’s lawyer to maintain the status quo.
Justice James Omotosho noted that the Governor of Edo State and the Edo State House of Assembly, the key players in the matter, had not been served with the necessary court documents. As a result, the judge allowed Shaibu to serve the court papers on Governor Obaseki and the state House of Assembly through alternative means.
To ensure that all parties are informed, Justice Omotosho ordered that the court documents be posted at the entrance gate of the Edo State Government House and the state House of Assembly Complex in Benin. Additionally, he directed that all court papers be delivered to the involved parties using a registered courier service.
The Edo State House of Assembly began the impeachment proceedings against Shaibu on March 5, 2024, citing allegations of leaking government secrets. In response, Shaibu filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the impeachment process. However, the judge has twice refused to grant temporary relief to stop the impeachment move.
The ongoing rift between Shaibu and Governor Obaseki is believed to be at the heart of the impeachment proceedings. Tensions between the deputy governor and his principal escalated when Shaibu expressed his intention to run for the Edo governorship this year.
The court has adjourned further proceedings until April 15, as the legal battle continues. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
