Confusion arose late Tuesday after conflicting reports emerged regarding the Court of Appeal’s decision on the impeachment of Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State.
Initial reports suggested that the Court of Appeal had upheld the Federal High Court’s decision, which had annulled Shaibu’s impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly. These reports indicated that the appellate court had confirmed Justice James Omotosho’s ruling, which invalidated the impeachment due to procedural unfairness and ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement. The court also reportedly nullified the appointment of Omobayo Godwins as the new Deputy Governor.
However, this narrative was challenged by Hon. Charity Aiguobarueghian, the Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, who labeled the reports as inaccurate and misleading.
In response to the purported ruling, Shaibu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) celebrated the decision, with Shaibu expressing his gratitude to God, the people of Edo State, and Nigerians. He praised the judgment as a victory for democracy and the judiciary. The APC also welcomed the ruling, criticizing Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration for its alleged disregard for due process and constitutional adherence.
Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, the APC’s state publicity secretary, issued a statement saying, “This victory underscores Governor Godwin Obaseki’s disregard for due process and the Constitution of Nigeria. The APC Edo State chapter is proud to see the Deputy Governor recognize the party that has supported and shaped his political career. We extend our support as he continues his tenure upholding democratic principles.”
Contrarily, Aiguobarueghian clarified to Vanguard that Shaibu had initiated legal action during the impeachment process to halt it, which was being heard by Justice Egwuatu. During this period, Shaibu was impeached, and the new Deputy Governor sought to dismiss the case, claiming no interest in pursuing it.
Shaibu subsequently filed a motion to use his personal name instead of his official title and requested that the case be converted from originating summons to writ of summons. The court granted these motions, leading to an interlocutory appeal to the Court of Appeal.
Aiguobarueghian explained that while Shaibu’s recent court filings and the ruling on July 17 by Justice Omotosho were celebrated by Shaibu, the substantive suit regarding his impeachment was still under appeal. She noted that the appeal processes had been served on Shaibu, who has five days to respond, with the opposing side also having five days to reply. No final decision had yet been made regarding the impeachment case.
