Samson Isibor, the head of the Conference of Registered Political Parties in Edo State, voiced his dismay regarding the removal of Philip Shaibu from his position as the state’s deputy governor.
Preceding this event, Shaibu faced impeachment by the state House of Assembly.
Shaibu’s impeachment followed the appointment by the state Chief Judge of a seven-member panel tasked with investigating the allegations against him.
Under the leadership of Justice S.A. Omonua, the panel delved into allegations of perjury and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential government information.
In response to the unfolding events, Isibor expressed his dismay, stating that the turn of events was not in line with the expectations of the people of Edo.
He, however, blamed the Chief Judge of the state, Daniel Okungbowa, for setting up the panel that investigated the allegation against Shaibu.
He noted that the haste in which the exercise was carried out showed bias against the former deputy governor.
He said, ‘This is not what the Edo indigenes bargained for. The impeachment of the deputy governor is illegal and should not be allowed to stay.
‘I blame the Chief Judge for this illegal impeachment. The process only lasted for three days, which showed that they had their mind made up on what to do. Imagine, the charade that was carried out in a few days.’
Read also: Edo Assembly Ousts Deputy Governor Shaibu From Office
When asked if Shaibu shot himself in the foot by not appearing at the panel, Isibor said, “If he appeared at the panel that showed he agreed with what they are doing, more so, when the court has told the parties involved to come and show cause why Shaibu quest to halt his impeachment should not be granted.’
Also, the Africa Action Congress, Udoh Oberaifo, also condemned the impeachment of Shaibu.
In a statement in Benin, Oberaifo said, ‘Of concern is the fact that the impeachment proceeded despite a pending case filed by the deputy governor at the Federal High court.
‘This legal action should have warranted a status quo, yet the impeachment was carried out regardless, casting doubts on the motives behind the hurried proceedings.’
According to him, the recently appointed deputy governor purportedly held a valid membership card with the LP, and had not formally renounced his affiliation at the point of assuming office.
‘This action, is in clear violation of the Electoral Act 2022 and it underscores the connivance between the LP and PDP to consolidate power,’ he added.
He criticized the demonstration of political manipulation and cautioned against the ingrained influence of godfatherism that had infiltrated Edo’s political landscape.