The Edo State House of Assembly has accused the state’s Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, of leaking government secrets and committing perjury, citing these as impeachable offenses. The Assembly, represented by Deputy Clerk Joe Ohaifa, presented its case during the inaugural sitting of a seven-man panel tasked with probing Shaibu’s conduct.
The panel, chaired by retired Justice S.A. Omonuwa, was established by the Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, following impeachment proceedings initiated by the Assembly on March 5.
Allegations against Shaibu include leaking government secrets and perjury, reportedly based on a petition. This move is believed to be the latest development in the ongoing rift between Shaibu and Governor Godwin Obaseki, escalating since Shaibu declared his intention to join the Edo governorship race.
Ohaifa outlined Shaibu’s alleged misconduct, stating that he disclosed state secrets in an affidavit filed in support of a lawsuit in Abuja, violating the Oath of Secrecy and acting contrary to constitutional provisions.
At the proceedings, Shaibu’s lawyer, Prof. Oladoyin Awoyale (SAN), requested a suspension of the impeachment proceedings pending the outcome of a suit filed in Abuja. However, the panel declined, citing constitutional provisions that empower the House of Assembly and the panel to perform their duties independently.
The panel chairman, Justice Omonuwa, affirmed the panel’s decision to proceed with the proceedings, emphasizing that the invitation to parties to show cause did not halt the impeachment process.
Awoyale, in response, excused himself from further participation, citing his client’s inability to continue due to the ongoing legal proceedings in Abuja.
As the proceedings continue, further developments will be monitored closely.