The appellate court affirmed Justice James Omotosho’s verdict that voided Shaibu’s impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly for lack of a fair hearing.
The Court of Appeal, while affirming Justice Omotosho’s order for Shaibu’s return to office, also set aside the appointment of Omobayo Godwins as the new Deputy Governor, replacing Shaibu.
The state Assembly had on April 8, 2024, impeached Shaibu, following the adoption of the report of a seven-man committee set up by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, which found Shaibu guilty of perjury and leaking of the state government’s secret.
Displeased with his removal, Shaibu approached Justice Omotosho, who nullified his impeachment and ordered his reinstatement.
However, the House of Assembly rejected Justice Omotosho’s verdict and headed to the Court of Appeal.
The appellate court, in a judgment, however, ruled in Shaibu’s favour.
Reacting to the judgment, Shaibu described it as a victory for democracy while expressing his gratitude to God, the people of Edo State and Nigerians.
Shaibu’s new party, the All Progressives Congress, also expressed joy over the judgment, saying the judicial victory was a testament to the alleged insensitivity of Governor Godwin Obaseki.