On Tuesday, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the decision of a lower court to reinstate Philip Shaibu as Deputy Governor of Edo State. The appellate court rejected the Edo State Assembly’s attempt to maintain Shaibu’s impeachment.
Shaibu was removed from office on April 8, 2024, following a report by a committee appointed by the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, which investigated alleged misconduct. The committee found Shaibu guilty of disclosing government secrets but not of perjury, as claimed.
On July 17, Federal High Court Judge James Omotosho overturned the impeachment, declaring the charges against Shaibu legally invalid and constituting gross misconduct. The court ordered Shaibu’s immediate reinstatement and directed the Inspector-General of Police to ensure his security and return to office.
The court also invalidated the appointment of Omobayo as the new deputy governor and affirmed Shaibu’s position.
