Edo Assembly Impeaches Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu Amidst Allegations of Breaching State Confidentiality
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The impeachment saga surrounding Edo State’s Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, reached its climax as the State Assembly executed its decision following the findings of a seven-man panel. Last Wednesday marked the commencement of the panel’s proceedings, chaired by retired Justice S. A. Omonuwa, in Benin, the state capital. However, the absence of Shaibu or his legal representatives during the panel’s conclusion on Friday signaled a critical turning point. Despite being given ample opportunity to refute the allegations against him, Shaibu failed to appear, prompting the Assembly to proceed with its case after initially presenting and concluding its arguments the previous Wednesday.
During the panel’s deliberations, Shaibu’s counsel, Oladoyin Awoyale, initially attended but withdrew midway following the panel’s rejection of his request to halt the proceedings pending the outcome of a separate legal challenge in Abuja. Despite Awoyale’s exit, the Assembly, led by its Deputy Clerk, Joe Ohiafi, articulated its case against Shaibu. Ohiafi highlighted Shaibu’s alleged breach of confidentiality by disclosing state government information in his affidavit filed in Abuja. Specifically, documents pertaining to the State Executive Council’s meetings were cited, indicating a violation of the Oath of Secrecy and constitutional provisions.
In a final showdown on Friday, the Assembly, represented by its Legal Officer, N.U. Ibrahim, along with two associates, stood firm in its pursuit of accountability and adherence to constitutional norms. The culmination of these proceedings underscores the gravity of the allegations against Shaibu and the Assembly’s commitment to upholding governance integrity.
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Investigations should be carried out appropriately and if he his found guilty of breaking the oat of secrecy and constitutional provisions he should be punished according to the law.