Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has declared the impeachment of Phillip Shuaibu as Deputy Governor of Edo State null and void.
In a judgment delivered today, Wednesday, July 17, the judge ordered Shuaibu’s immediate reinstatement to office, citing non-compliance with due process by the Edo State House of Assembly in the impeachment proceedings.
Shuaibu, visibly moved, shed tears of joy upon hearing the judge’s decision.
Justice Omotosho ruled that the allegations against Shuaibu, which formed the basis of the impeachment, lacked legal merit and did not constitute gross misconduct.
Additionally, the judge directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide necessary security to enable Shuaibu to resume his duties until the expiration of his tenure.
Furthermore, Justice Omotosho invalidated the appointment of Shuaibu’s replacement as Deputy Governor.
The Edo House of Assembly had impeached Shuaibu in April 2024 on allegations of perjury and disclosure of state secrets, backed by a petition signed by 21 out of 24 lawmakers.
The impeachment followed a strained relationship between Shuaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki, particularly after Shuaibu expressed interest in contesting the gubernatorial election scheduled for September 2024, succeeding Governor Obaseki.
