Impeachment: Edo CJ Reviews Panel, Drops Two Members

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, yesterday, reviewed the panel he earlier constituted to investigate impeachment allegations against the Deputy Governor of the state, Philip Shaibu.

This was part of the processes initiated by the State House of Assembly to impeach the deputy governor.

In the new list signed by court’s chief registrar, B.O Osawaru, two members, Prof. Violet Aigbokhaebo, and Prof. Boniface Onomion Edegbai, were dropped.

The list was first released on Friday and with the review, the panel was expected to begin sitting immediately.

According to the latest statement, the panel would still be chaired by retired Justice S.A. Omonua.

Other members were Prof. Theresa Akpoghome, Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, Dr. Andrew Oliha, Idris Abdulkareen, President Aigbokhian and Mariam Erakhoba Ilavbare.

The letter read: “This is to bring to the notice of the general public that in line with section 188(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Honourable the Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justice D.I. Okungbowa, has constituted the panel of seven persons to investigate the allegations contained in the impeachment notice against the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Honourable Philip Shaibu.

“This is sequel to the resolution of the Edo State House of Assembly on the 19th March, 2024, which was sent to The Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State.

“The said panel of seven persons is comprised of the following persons: Hon. Justice S.A. Omonua (retd.) – Chairman, Professor Theresa Akpoghome (member), Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu (member), Dr. Andrew Oliha Member, Idris Abdulkareen (member), President Aigbokhian (member) and Mariam Erakhoba Ilavbare, (member).