Justice James Omotoso of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has set aside the impeachment of Comrade Phillip Shuaibu as Edo State Deputy Governor by the State House of Assembly.
The Court, in its judgement on Wednesday, held that Shuaibu’s impeachment and subsequent removal from office violated the provisions of the law.
Having declared the removal as unlawful, the court subsequently ordered his reinstatement as deputy governor of the state.
Justice Omotosho, while delivering judgment in the suit, ordered that Shaibu be reinstated to office because the Edo State House of Assembly failed to comply with due process in impeaching him.
Justice Omotosho also set aside the appointment of the new Deputy Governor who replaced Shaibu.
Besides, the court ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to restore his security details as deputy governor.
Following the reinstatement,the State Government has filed a stay of execution of the judgement before the Court of Appeal.
It also insisted that Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains the State’s deputy governor pending the final determination of the case.
The State’s Commissioner for Orientation and Communication, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.
He said, “Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgement, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains and continues to serve as the valid deputy Governor of Edo State.
“He will continue to serve in this capacity and would be recognized as such. The government hereby calls on the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.”
