In a significant development in Edo State, the Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, has taken a crucial step by setting up a seven-man panel to investigate the petition against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. The Edo State House of Assembly had served an impeachment notice on Shaibu on March 6, 2024, citing alleged misconduct and perjury. Despite the deputy governor’s alleged evasion of being served the notice, the House resorted to a substituted means of service through the Observer Newspaper and Vanguard Newspapers.
Following a resolution passed by the House on March 19, 2024, the Chief Judge swiftly acted and constituted the panel. Retired Justice S.A. Omonua was appointed as the chairman, with three distinguished professors from the University of Benin and Benson Idahosa University also serving as members. The panel includes Professor Violet Aigbokhaevbo, Professor Boniface Onomion Edegbai, Professor Theresa Akpoghome, Surveyor Andrew Oliha, Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, and Idris Abdulkareen.
In a statement released by the Chief Registrar of the State High Court, B.O. Osawaru, it was emphasized that the constitution of the panel is in accordance with Section 188(5) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. The panel’s mandate is to thoroughly investigate the allegations against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.
This development has sparked widespread interest and scrutiny, as the panel prepares to delve into the allegations and determine the course of action. Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding story in Edo State.
