In a dramatic turn of events at the inaugural sitting of the impeachment panel in Edo State, tensions ran high as the panel delved into the allegations against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. The panel, chaired by retired Justice S.A. Omonua, was tasked with investigating the claims brought forth by the State House of Assembly.
Represented by his counsel, Prof Oladoyin Awoyale, SAN, Shaibu faced a legal hurdle as Awoyale highlighted a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the panel to halt proceedings until a decision was made on an interlocutory injunction. Despite this, the panel pressed on, citing constitutional provisions that allowed them to continue their investigation.
As the proceedings unfolded, Shaibu’s counsel withdrew from the case, citing non-compliance with the court order. In a surprising twist, the counsel to the House of Assembly suddenly became a witness, leaving the Assembly without legal representation.
Despite the chaos, the panel continued with the hearing, with the deputy clerk testifying as a witness. He presented evidence, including a substituted impeachment notice and a lawsuit filed by Shaibu against the Inspector General of Police. The panel admitted the documents as exhibits and adjourned the sitting to allow Shaibu to respond to the allegations.
The unfolding drama and legal intricacies of the impeachment proceedings in Edo State captivated onlookers, setting the stage for a contentious battle between the deputy governor and the State House of Assembly. Stay tuned for more updates as the case unfolds.
