A controversy has emerged over a reported ruling by the Court of Appeal in Abuja, upholding the decision of the Federal High Court to quash the impeachment of Comrade Philip Shaibu as the deputy governor of Edo state.
The reported ruling, which affirmed Justice James Omotosho’s verdict, has been disputed by the Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon Charity Aiguobarueghian, who described it as “false and misleading.”
However, Shaibu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have lauded the purported ruling, with Shaibu expressing gratitude to God, the people of Edo State, and Nigerians, and describing the judgment as a victory for democracy and the judiciary.
The APC also expressed joy over the judgment, noting that it is a testament to Governor Godwin Obaseki’s disregard for due process and the constitution.
Aiguobarueghian clarified that the Court of Appeal’s ruling was actually on an interlocutory appeal challenging the change of name in the case, and not on the substantive matter of Shaibu’s impeachment.
She explained that the Edo State House of Assembly and the Attorney General of Edo State have filed separate appeals against Justice Omotosho’s judgment declaring Shaibu the winner in a later suit.
The controversy highlights the complex and contentious nature of the impeachment process and the legal battles surrounding it.
The outcome of the appeals and the final determination of Shaibu’s status as deputy governor remain to be seen.
