The Edo State House of Assembly has issued a directive to the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, to establish a seven-member panel tasked with investigating the allegations leveled against the state deputy governor, Ry Philip Shaibu. The assembly alleges misconduct and the unauthorized disclosure of government information against the deputy governor, prompting the need for a thorough investigation by the appointed panel. The panel is expected to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the accusations and provide necessary recommendations based on its findings.
The brief session, presided over by Speaker RT Hon Blessing Agbebaku, saw the assembly affirming its decision to initiate the investigation into the conduct of the deputy governor. Earlier this month, the Edo State House of Assembly commenced impeachment proceedings against Shaibu, citing constitutional violations. However, Shaibu refuted claims of receiving an impeachment notice from the assembly, contesting the Speaker’s assertion during plenary.
Given the inability to physically serve Shaibu with the impeachment notice, the Speaker explained that the House resorted to a substituted service method through a public advertisement in newspapers. This procedural step was taken after the deputy governor could not be reached for formal service of the notice.
The establishment of the investigative panel underscores the seriousness of the allegations against the deputy governor and reflects the assembly’s commitment to upholding accountability and due process in governance. As the panel begins its work, it is expected to conduct an impartial and thorough examination of the accusations, ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the investigative process.
The outcome of the panel’s investigation will carry significant weight in determining the next steps regarding the allegations against Deputy Governor Ry Philip Shaibu. The assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, remains steadfast in its pursuit of constitutional integrity and adherence to established procedures in addressing issues of governance and accountability within the state.
Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to the Speaker dated March 12, 2024 and titled “RE: Service of Impeachment Notice,” signed by the Personal Assistant to the Deputy Governor, Charles Olubayo, Shaibu denied ever being served any letter and refusing to collect same.
He said Shaibu has been out of the state since March 3 and therefore could not have been served as claimed during plenary.
His supporters, however, believe that he is being persecuted because he is interested to succeed his boss in office, Gov Godwin Obaseki.
Shaibu emerged as the Governorship Candidate in a parallel primary election held on February 22, 2024.