Obaseki: Time to Leave Shaibu Alone Has Come

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has reinstated Philip Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. This ruling nullifies his earlier impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly, which had accused him of misconduct. The court’s decision puts Shaibu back in a position that Governor Godwin Obaseki may not be pleased with, but it is legally binding.

Shaibu and Obaseki were once a united front, elected twice on the platforms of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, their relationship soured when Shaibu expressed his intention to succeed Obaseki as governor. This political ambition led to a rift, culminating in Shaibu’s impeachment, which he successfully challenged in court.

The appeal court’s decision to uphold Shaibu’s reinstatement is a clear message that the initial impeachment did not follow due process. Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court had earlier ruled that the impeachment violated constitutional provisions. The appeal court’s affirmation suggests that the legal battle is over, at least for now.

Shaibu has repeatedly tried to mend fences with Obaseki, but his attempts have gone unanswered. He revealed that he made 111 calls to the governor, none of which were returned. Despite this, Shaibu remains in his position, leaving Obaseki with little choice but to accept the court’s ruling.

The political tension between the two men raises questions about the future of Edo State’s governance. With the court’s decision, some commentators think that it would be wise for Obaseki to shift his focus from political infighting to the business of governance. After all, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

The people of Edo State are watching closely, hoping that their leaders will put aside personal differences for the greater good. Obaseki and Shaibu have the opportunity to prove that their commitment to the state’s development is stronger than their political rivalry. In the end, good governance should be the priority, as time waits for no one.