Court Reinstates Philip Shaibu As Edo Deputy Governor

In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has reinstated Mr. Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. Justice James Omotosho declared the impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly as illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void, violating sections 188 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution.

Shaibu's restoration to office also includes an order for all his salaries, allowances, and benefits to be paid retroactively from April 8, when the impeachment occurred. The court issued a perpetual injunction restraining Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Edo State House of Assembly from hindering Shaibu from performing his official duties. Furthermore, the Inspector General of Police was ordered to immediately restore Shaibu's security details.

The court's decision highlighted that the reasons provided by the Edo Assembly for the impeachment were unfounded and indicative of a political vendetta. This ruling underscores the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional integrity and protecting democratic institutions.