The recently impeached Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, has taken a step towards seeking ‘justice’.
News About Nigeria reports that the Edo politician has reached out to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, for assistance in filing a formal complaint against the Chief Judge of Edo, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.
Shaibu was impeached on Monday, following the State House of Assembly’s decision based on a report from a seven-man panel appointed by the State’s Chief Judge.
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.
Making true his vow in a letter dated April 8, 2024, from the Chambers of B.I. Dakum and Co, Shaibu appealed to the CJN, who also chairs the National Judicial Council, to obtain a complaint form.
This form, if given, enables him to formally petition against Justice Okungbowa for alleged abuse of office, official misconduct, and violation of his oath of office.
The letter, signed by Barrister Adaze A. Emwanta, a former Commissioner for Information and Orientation to Governor Godwin Obaseki, seeks to initiate a complaint process as per the Judicial Discipline Regulations 2017.
It read in part, “We write as solicitors to Rt Hon. Philip Shaibu, who until this morning was Deputy Governor of Edo State.
“Rt Hon Philip Shaibu has instructed us to file a formal complaint to your council against Hon Justice Daniel Okungbowa, the Chief Judge of Edo State, for abuse of office, official misconduct, and desecration of his oath of office.
“The purpose of this letter, therefore, is to formally request a complaint form prescribed under the Judicial Discipline Regulations 2017, to enable our client to file his complaint against the subject judge.”
