The Edo State House of Assembly has taken decisive action regarding the allegations of gross misconduct and perjury against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.
Following the expiration of the seven-day ultimatum for Shaibu to respond to the impeachment notice served on him earlier this month, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku revealed that the Assembly has directed the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, to establish a seven-member panel to investigate the matter.
Speaker Agbebaku emphasised that despite Shaibu’s evasion of the impeachment notice, the Assembly proceeded with a substituted service via publication in two newspapers.
Majority Leader Charity Aiguobarueghan moved the motion to form the panel, citing relevant constitutional provisions.
Aiguobarueghan highlighted that Shaibu’s failure to respond within the stipulated timeframe aligns with constitutional provisions, asserting the Assembly’s duty to proceed with the investigation regardless of the response from the accused.
In a decisive show of support, 19 out of the 24 lawmakers voted in favour of the motion, surpassing the required two-thirds majority. This development underscores the Assembly’s commitment to upholding accountability and due process in governance.
