The Federal High Court in Abuja made a pivotal decision on Wednesday, rejecting an attempt to halt the impeachment process launched by the Edo State House of Assembly against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.
Despite an oral plea from Shaibu’s legal representative, Prof. Olawoyin Awoyale (SAN), for the court to maintain the status quo in suit FHC/ABJ/CS/321/2024, Justice James Omotosho stood firm in his ruling. Notably, the judge pointed out that key figures in the case, such as the Governor of Edo State and the State House of Assembly, had not been properly served with the necessary court documents.
“The Governor of Edo State and the Edo State House of Assembly, who are the principal actors in the matter, have not been served with the Originating Summons of the suit as required by law.” the judge stated in rejecting the prayer.
In response, Justice Omotosho approved Shaibu’s request to serve the court papers on Governor Obaseki and the State House of Assembly through alternative means. The judge mandated that the legal documents be displayed at the Edo State Government House entrance and the State House of Assembly Complex gate in Benin.
Furthermore, he directed all parties involved to be served with the court papers using a registered courier company. The proceedings were adjourned till April 15 to allow for further deliberations.
The impeachment proceedings against Shaibu were instigated by the Edo State House of Assembly on March 5, 2024, citing allegations of leaking government secrets.
Following this, the Assembly petitioned the Chief Judge of the state to establish a seven-member panel to investigate the claims against Shaibu.
In a bid to halt the impeachment process, Shaibu filed suit FHC/ABJ/CS/321/2024 before Justice Omotosho, seeking an order to prevent the defendants from continuing with the impeachment.
Despite repeated efforts, including a previous ex parte application on March 13, which was also declined, Shaibu has been unsuccessful in securing a temporary halt to the impeachment proceedings.
The legal tussle is widely viewed as a reflection of the strained relationship between Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki, stemming from the deputy governor’s declared interest in contesting the Edo governorship race.
