Philip Shaibu Rejects Impeachment As Deputy Governor, Vows To Fight Edo Assembly

Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu has rejected his impeachment by the State House of Assembly, describing it as illegal and a politically motivated witch-hunt.

KanyiDaily recalls that Shaibu’s impeachment occurred on Monday following the adoption of the report of a seven-member investigative panel by the Edo assembly.

The panel, chaired by retired Justice S. A. Omonuwa, was set up by Chief Judge Daniel Okungbowa.

The Assembly had accused Shaibu of breaching confidentiality by leaking the state secrets and committing perjury, citing these as impeachable offenses.

This development unfolds amidst a prolonged feud between Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy.

In response to his impeachment, Shaibu, vowed to fight vigorously, labeling it as not only illegal but also oppressive and antithetical to democratic principles and the rule of law.

Shaibu contended that his impeachment is a consequence of his aspiration to contest the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The former deputy governor said that such ambitions are legitimate rights accorded to all Nigerian citizens.

Expressing deep dismay over the alleged trumped-up allegations, Shaibu accuses the Assembly members of betrayal and manipulation of democratic institutions for personal interests.

He called upon all well-meaning citizens, both in Edo and across Nigeria, to stand in solidarity against tyranny and oppression, vowing to resist and fight for justice relentlessly.

Shaibu also implored the judiciary and relevant authorities to intervene and ensure justice prevails, confident that the legal system will vindicate him and expose the purported sham orchestrated against him.

Despite facing adversity, Shaibu maintains his resolve to champion the rights and freedoms of all Edo residents, urging calm and lawful conduct amid the turbulent times.

Shaibu said, “It is with heavy heart, yet, a resolute spirit that I come before you to address the recent events that have unfolded within our dear state.

“I denounce in strongest terms the illegal impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly over trumped-up charges.

“This is not just an attack on me as an individual, but on the very democratic principle that we hold dear. It is a dangerous descent into dictatorship and a threat to the foundation of our democracy.

“Let it be clear that this impeachment was hashed because of my ambition to contest the Edo State 2024 governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), an ambition that is a legal right to all the citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“It is a sad reality that in our political landscape, ambition is met with resistance and those in power seek to silence opposition through illegitimate means.

“I have dedicated my life to serving the good people of Edo State with integrity and honesty. I have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens. I have upheld the values of democracy and justice, yet, in return, I am faced with baseless accusations and blatant disregard for due process and rule of law.”

He insisted that the allegations brought against him “are nothing more than a whole screen to conceal the true motive behind this impeachment”.

He continued, “It is a flagrant abuse of power and betrayal of the trust that the people of Edo have placed in their elected officials.

“We refuse to stay inactive while our democratic institutions manipulate and exploit for personal gain. We will fight this with iota of blood in our vein for the sake of the people of Edo state and the future of our democracy.

“I call on all well-meaning citizens of Edo and indeed all Nigerians who believe in the principles of democracy and justice to stand with us in this moment of crisis. We cannot allow tyranny and oppression to take roots in our society. We must resist the forces that seek to undermine our freedom and trample upon our rights.

“To the members of the Edo State House of Assembly who have chosen to forsake their oath of office and participate in this charade, history will judge harshly for your betrayal of the people who elected you to represent their interests. But know that you do not have the power to silence the voice of justice and truth.

“I call upon the judiciary and all relevant authorities to intervene and uphold the principles of justice and fairness. Let truth prevail over lies. Let the rule of law triumph over lawlessness. I am confident that the legal system will vindicate me and expose the sham that has been orchestrated against me.

“I will not be deterred or intimidated by those who seek to subvert our democracy. I will continue to fight for the rights and freedom of all Edolites and by extension, Nigerians that suffer oppression. I will stand firm in my resolve to see justice done.

“In the face of tyranny and oppression, I urge all to remain calm and go about our lawful duties as good citizens and true democrats.”

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KanyiDaily recalls that Philip Shaibu stated that he won’t be intimidated by any individual or group as he approaches the September 21 governorship election.