The seven-man panel chaired by retired Justice S.A. Omonuwa, established by Edo State’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, to investigate allegations of gross misconduct against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, declared on Wednesday that it would proceed with its inquiry as there was no court order halting it.
The decision was made following an objection raised by Shaibu’s counsel, Prof Oladoyin Awoyale (SAN), who cited an Abuja Federal High Court order adjourning the case until April 8, 2024, for parties to present reasons for or against interlocutory injunctions against the impeachment proceedings.
Justice Omonuwa (retd.) clarified that the Federal High Court merely requested parties to provide cause for their actions.
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Deputy Clerk, Legal, Edo State House of Assembly, Ohaifa Joe, representing the House of Assembly, argued that under Constitution Section 188 (10), no court could impede the Assembly or the panel from executing their constitutional duties.
He further contended that Awoyale (SAN) needed to demonstrate that the constitution’s provision had been altered for his argument to stand.
Chairman of the panel, Justice Omonuwa (retd.), affirmed that the panel would proceed and requested the House of Assembly to present its case.
In response, Awoyale informed the panel that his client would not continue participating in the investigation and sought permission to be excused.
When questioned if he waived his client’s defense rights, Awoyale (SAN) denied, emphasizing compliance with the court’s directive to appear on April 8, 2024.
He reiterated non-opposition to the panel’s ruling and emphasized the importance of adhering to the court’s session scheduled for Monday, April 8, 2024.
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