The Edo State House of Assembly has taken a significant step by initiating impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. This move comes amidst allegations of perjury and the disclosure of state secrets, which has stirred political tensions within the state.
Furthermore, on March 5, 2024, the parliament commenced the impeachment process with 21 out of the 24 members signing a petition against Shaibu. The grounds for impeachment are based on serious accusations related to his conduct in office.
However, during a recent plenary session, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku announced that the seven-day ultimatum given to Shaibu to respond to the impeachment notice had expired. Despite attempts to serve him the notice, Shaibu allegedly evaded service, prompting the House to resort to a substituted service published in leading newspapers.
Majority Leader Aiguobarueghan moved for Chief Judge Okungbowa to form a committee investigating Shaibu, backed by 19 members.
Additionally, the decision to initiate impeachment proceedings underscores the escalating political tensions within Edo State’s governance structure.
The ongoing conflict between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu is under public scrutiny, intensifying existing power struggles.
Stakeholders and observers within Edo State’s political landscape will closely monitor the outcome of the investigative committee’s findings and the subsequent proceedings. This is expected to have significant ramifications for the state’s governance and the relationship between key political figures.
Furthermore, this development also highlights the constitutional processes in place to ensure accountability and transparency in government, reaffirming the Assembly’s role in upholding the rule of law and addressing allegations of misconduct within the executive branch.
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