Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has rejected his impeachment by the state’s House of Assembly, calling it illegal, News About Nigeria reports.
On Monday, the assembly voted to remove Shaibu based on findings from a seven-person panel led by Justice S.A. Omonua, which investigated an impeachment petition against him.
The panel’s report stated that the accusation of lying under oath wasn’t proven beyond doubt, but the charge of sharing government documents was confirmed against Shaibu.
In response to his impeachment, Shaibu stated in a broadcast on his official X handle that he would fight this injustice to protect Edo State and democracy’s future.
Shaibu blamed his removal on his desire to run for Edo State Governor in 2023 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), saying it’s his right as a Nigerian citizen.
He criticised the Assembly members for betraying their duty to the people who elected them.
He said, “I denounce in the strongest terms the illegal impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly. This is not just an attack on me as an individual but on our very democratic principles.
“It is a threat to the foundation of our democracy. Let it be clear that this impeachment came because of my ambition to contest the 2023 Edo State Governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party PDP.
“An ambition that is a legal right to all citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is a sad reality that those in power seem to silence opposition through illegitimate means. I have dedicated my love to serving the good people of Edo State with integrity and honesty.”
Meanwhile, Governor Godwin Obaseki has chosen 38-year-old Engineer Omobayo Godwin as the new deputy governor.
Omobayo, born on July 19, 1986, is from Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Benin (UNIBEN).
He has a background in engineering and public administration.
He is a member of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
Prior to his appointment, Omobayo worked as a Senior Maintenance Engineer at Dresser Wayne West Africa Limited, gaining valuable experience in the South-South region.
Omobayo is also active in local politics.
The new deputy governor’s inauguration is scheduled today for the Edo State Government House in Benin City.
