The impeached Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, is currently contemplating dropping his petition against the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, amid persuasion from various quarters, his lawyer revealed.
In an interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Andrew Emwanta, the legal representative of Shaibu, disclosed the ongoing deliberations. Emwanta emphasized that Shaibu is considering his options in light of appeals from several sources.
Shaibu’s decision to potentially withdraw his petition comes after he had initially sought to file a formal complaint against Justice Okungbowa with the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, through his lawyers.
The petition stemmed from the establishment of a seven-man panel by the Chief Judge to investigate allegations of perjury and leaking of government secrets against Shaibu, as requested by the Edo State House. Following the probe, the Assembly declared Shaibu guilty and subsequently impeached him, leading to his replacement by Omobayo Godwins.
Despite Shaibu’s assertion that his removal was unlawful and his vow to challenge it legally, his lawyers had sought to file a complaint against Justice Okungbowa. However, with no response from the CJN regarding the request for a formal complaint form, Shaibu’s legal team is currently refraining from further action.
When questioned about the matter, Emwanta clarified that while there have been appeals for Shaibu to drop his complaint, no final decision has been made. He stated, “There are appeals for him to do so, I believe this clarification is sufficient.”