The seven-man impeachment investigative panel tasked with probing alleged misconduct by Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu commenced its proceedings despite objections related to a court adjournment.
At its inaugural sitting, the panel, led by retired Justice S.A Omonua, ruled to continue its investigation, citing the absence of a court order prohibiting its activities.
Mr. Shaibu’s lead counsel, Oladoyin Awoyale, raised objections to the panel’s continuation, referring to an adjournment granted by the Federal High Court, Abuja, until April 8.
This adjournment was intended for parties to present reasons why the court should grant or deny interlocutory injunctions against the ongoing impeachment processes initiated by the Edo State House of Assembly against the deputy governor.
In response, the deputy clerk of the House of Assembly, Joe Ohiafi, invoked section 188(10) of the Nigerian Constitution, arguing that no court possesses the authority to obstruct the House of Assembly or its investigative panel from fulfilling their constitutional mandates.
Justice Omonua clarified that the Federal High Court’s directive merely required parties to appear and present their cases, emphasizing that the House of Assembly must state its position.
In light of the panel’s decision to proceed, Shaibu’s counsel expressed reluctance to participate further, citing concerns about contravening the federal high court’s order.
While he requested to be excused from the proceedings, he clarified that this action did not constitute a waiver of his client’s right to defense.
Instead, he reiterated the obligation for all parties to comply with the federal high court’s order to appear and justify their positions.
