Edo: Governor Obaseki Rejects Court Judgement On Shuaibu, Insists Omobayo Remains Deputy, Files Appeal

By Ayodele Oni

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has insisted that working with Philip Shuaibu as his Deputy is over.

Obaseki’s position was contained in a statement by his Commissioner for Information, Chris Nehikhare.

The Governor’s reaction followed the ruling of a Federal High Court which reinstated Shaibu in office as Deputy Governor, and declared as null and void his impeachment by the House of Assembly as null and void.

The Government’s statement reads: “The Edo State Government, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, faulted and rejected the judgement of a Federal High Court, Abuja which reinstatement Mr Philip Shaibu as the deputy governor of the State.

“The present Deputy Governor, Mr Godwins Marvellous Omobayo remains the Deputy Governor of the State pending the hearing and determination of an appeal against the judgement of the Court of first instance.

“The Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government of Edo State specifically said that it has filed a stay of execution on the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja which nullified the impeachment of Philip Shaibu as deputy governor.”

It is Justice James Omotoso of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who set aside the impeachment of Philip Shaibu, a ruling which Obaseki has faulted and rejected.

He has filed an appeal.

“Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgment of the Federal High Court, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Godwin Marvellous Omobayo, remains and continues to serve as the valid Deputy Governor of Edo State.

“His Excellency, Godwin Marvellous Omobayo will continue to serve in this capacity, and will be recognized as such.”

Obaseki called on Edo residents to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.