Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has reaffirmed that Philip Shaibu remains impeached as Deputy Governor, despite Shaibu’s warning to Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to prevent political appointees from looting government properties.
Obaseki described Shaibu’s statement as “infantile ramblings” and emphasized that Shaibu lacks the authority to issue directives until the court makes a final determination.
This follows the Federal High Court’s July ruling, which voided Shaibu’s impeachment due to the Edo State House of Assembly’s failure to comply with due process.
Additionally, on September 24, the court dismissed two motions filed by the Edo State Government and the State House of Assembly against Shaibu’s reinstatement, imposing a ₦400,000 fine on them.
Obaseki’s stance is clear: Shaibu is still considered impeached and lacks the power to issue directives or warnings to Edo State Government staff.
The governor urged Edo workers to disregard Shaibu’s statements and continue performing their duties without fear of intimidation or harassment, ensuring quality service delivery to the people of Edo State.
Shaibu’s impeachment on April 8, 2024, was overturned by the Federal High Court on July 17, 2024 .
However, the dispute between Obaseki and Shaibu persists, with Obaseki insisting on Shaibu’s lack of authority.
