Philip Shaibu has rejected his impeachment as the deputy governor of Edo.
Shaibu was impeached on Monday after members of the Edo assembly adopted the report of a seven-member investigative panel.
The panel was set up by Daniel Okungbowa, chief judge of Edo, and was headed by S. A. Omonuwa, a retired justice.
Shaibu was accused of “misconduct, perjury, and disclosure of government secrets”.
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Subsequently, Godwin Obaseki, governor of Edo, picked Omobayo Godwin as his deputy.
Godwin has just been sworn in as the number two citizen of Edo.
Speaking in a video posted on his X handle, Shaibu said the allegations levelled against him by the lawmakers were “trumped-up charges” and a smokescreen to conceal the real motive of those who wanted him out.
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The embattled deputy governor said he was impeached because of his desire to contest the 2024 Edo governorship election.
“I denounce in the strongest terms the illegal impeachment by the Edo state house of assembly over trumped-up charges. This is not just an attack on me as an individual but on the democratic principles we hold dear,” he said.
“It is a dangerous descent into dictatorship and a threat to the foundation of our democracy. Let it be clear that this impeachment was hatched because of my ambition to contest the 2024 Edo state governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party. An ambition that is a legal right of all citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is a sad reality that, in our political landscape, ambition is met with resistance, and those in power seek to silence opposition through illegitimate means. I have dedicated my life to serving the good people of Edo state with integrity and honesty.”
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Shaibu said the “injustice” meted on him will be fought with “every iota of strength” for the sake of the people of the state.
He added that he believes that the legal system will vindicate him, while calling on the people of the state to rise against the injustice.
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