The Federal High Court in Abuja has reinstated Mr Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. Shaibu, who was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly several months ago, had challenged his removal in court.
Presiding over the case, Hon. Justice James Omotosho declared the impeachment and subsequent appointment of Omobayo Godwin as Shaibu’s replacement by the Governor of Edo State as illegal and unconstitutional. The judge ruled that the impeachment process violated the procedures outlined in Section 188(1) to (9) of the Nigerian Constitution.
Justice Omotosho emphasized that the ouster clause in Section 188(10), which limits jurisdiction, is not a standalone provision and must be read in conjunction with the entire section. He referenced the Nigerian Supreme Court’s decision in Inakoju v. Adeleke (2007) to support his ruling.
The court ordered the Inspector General of Police, the first defendant in the case, to immediately restore Shaibu’s security details as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. Additionally, the court found the impeachment to be politically motivated, linked to Shaibu’s aspiration to run for the governorship of Edo State.
As the news of the verdict spread, supporters of Shaibu were seen celebrating within the court premises, expressing their joy over the court’s decision.
This ruling marks a notable victory for Shaibu and sets a significant precedent in the interpretation of impeachment procedures under Nigerian law.
