The governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki, has reaffirmed that the impeached deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, remains removed from office despite recent developments in the court.
Obaseki made this declaration on Friday in response to a statement credited to Shaibu, cautioning Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) against political appointees allegedly attempting to loot government properties.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, Obaseki urged Edo State workers to disregard what he described as “infantile ramblings,” asserting that Shaibu no longer holds any authority.
“We want to restate that Philip Shaibu remains impeached as the Deputy Governor of Edo State until the court’s determination and, therefore, lacks the power and authority to issue directives or warnings to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of MDAs, or any staff employed by the Edo State Government,” the statement read.
Obaseki further clarified that Shaibu’s status as an impeached deputy governor is legally binding, despite a court ruling in July, which voided the impeachment.
The ruling from Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement due to procedural lapses by the Edo State House of Assembly during the impeachment process.
Nonetheless, Obaseki stood firm on Friday, maintaining that until the legal process concludes, Shaibu remains impeached.
“Our attention has been drawn to the very ridiculous statement purportedly signed by the impeached deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, in which he warned Permanent Secretaries and Heads of MDAs to guard against the looting of government properties by political appointees,” the governor said.
He urged Edo workers to stay focused on their duties without fear of intimidation. “We urge all Edo workers to disregard the infantile ramblings of the impeached deputy governor and continue with their lawful duties while ensuring the delivery of quality and effective service to the people of Edo State,” Obaseki concluded.
The legal battle continues as the Federal High Court in Abuja had, on Tuesday, September 24, dismissed motions filed by the Edo State Government and State Assembly against Shaibu’s reinstatement, and awarded ₦400,000 in costs against them.