Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu has called for a suspension of the investigative panel’s proceedings concerning his impending impeachment. This request was made during the panel’s inaugural session in Benin City, the state capital, on Wednesday.
Shuaibu, represented by his counsel, Oladoyin Awoyale—a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and professor—contended that the panel’s activities could potentially undermine the authority of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which had issued an interlocutory injunction.
The court has scheduled a subsequent hearing for April 8.
The legal representative emphasized the necessity for all involved parties to adhere to the court’s directive. In contrast, the House of Assembly’s counsel and Deputy Clerk of the Legal Department, Joe Oaifi, maintained that the constitution supports the panel’s proceedings.
He cited section 188 (10), which stipulates that no court can obstruct the House of Assembly or its appointed panel from fulfilling constitutional duties.
The state’s Chief Judge, Daniel Okungbowa, appointed the panel, led by retired judge S. A. Omonuwa, with the task of investigating allegations of misconduct against the Deputy Governor, as brought forth by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The situation remains tense as the panel deliberates on the Deputy Governor’s fate amidst legal challenges and constitutional debates.
