The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has hailed the impeachment of former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu as a significant accomplishment for the Assembly.
He made this declaration on Wednesday during a press briefing marking the first anniversary of the 8th Assembly.
Agbebaku emphasized that the impeachment process was meticulously followed according to legal protocols.
“Personally, I am proud to say that the impeachment of the former Deputy Governor is a major achievement because it signifies our dedication to our legislative duties. It also underscores the independence of the 8th Assembly,” he stated.
Philip Shaibu, impeached on March 8, 2024, is the first Deputy Governor to be impeached in the state’s history, spanning from the Midwest Region, Bendel State, to Edo State. His impeachment was the result of a seven-member panel, appointed by Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa, finding him guilty of leaking government information.
Regarding the suspension of three lawmakers on May 6, 2024, Agbebaku explained that they were disciplined for violating the House’s rules. The suspended legislators—Donald Okogbe (PDP, Akoko-Edo II), Bright Iyamu (PDP, Orihonmwon South), and Addeh Isibor (APC, Esan North East I)—were accused of plotting to impeach the Speaker and other Principal Officers, and of being influenced by “external forces” to destabilize the House.
Agbebaku noted that a committee was formed to investigate the suspensions, with a report expected in three weeks to determine the next steps.
The Edo Assembly Speaker also highlighted the legislative accomplishments over the past year, with 16 Bills and 44 Resolutions passed. He remarked that these Resolutions have helped define the House’s policy direction, while the Bills have had significant economic, social, political, and religious impacts on the State’s residents.
