Panel Begins Sitting Over Impeachment Of Deputy Gov. Shaibu

By Simeon OSAJIE

The 7-man panel set up by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Daniel Okungbowa, to investigate the impeachment petition against the Comrade Philip Shaibu, Deputy Governor has commenced.

The panel commenced sitting today Tuesday 3rd April, 2024 with all members of the panel present.

The seven-man panel includes Justice S. A. Omonua (rtd) as chairman, Professor Theresa Akpoghome, Idris Abdulkareen, Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, Surveyor Andrew Oliha, President Aigbokhian and Mariam Erakhoba Ilavbare.

Prof. Oladoyin Awoyale, SAN, represented Shaibu, at the commencement of sitting, while Joe Ohiafi, the Deputy Clerk, Edo State House of Assembly represented the Legislative Chamber.

In his submission, Awoyale stated that a Federal High Court, Abuja, presided over by Justice J. E. Ekwo had ordered the panel to show cause why an interlocutory injunction to maintain status quo pending the determination of the case should not be granted to the plaintiff, Comrade Philip Shaibu.

He said in line with the Federal High Court order, his client would not be able to participate in the panel’s proceedings, until the court decides in favour or otherwise.

Awoyale implored the panel to wait for the court decision slated for April 8, 2024.

Counsel to the Edo State House of Assembly, Joe Ohiafi, urged the panel to overrule the submission of the respondent’s counsel.

According to him, no court can invalidate the panel in line with Section 188, Subsection 10 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended.

Ohiafi maintained that the panel is ordered to carry out its proceedings in line with Section 188 Subsection 10 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended.

The judicial committee, however, adjourned to deliver ruling on the submission by the respondent.

The panel is sitting at the Judges Conference Room, located at the New High Court Complex, Benin City.