Scheduled by Chief Judge of Edo State, Daniel Okungbowa, the seven-member panel tasked with investigating the impeachment petition against Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has set April 3, 2024 as the date for the beginning of its sessions.
In a statement dated March 28, 2024, George Odidi, the administrative secretary of the panel, informed the press in Benin City about this development.
The panel will convene at the Judges Conference Room at the New High Court Complex in Benin City promptly at 10:00 am.
Odidi emphasized the importance of the presence of parties or their legal representatives, and the readiness of the complainant to present their case.
The statement noted, “By virtue of the inauguration of the aforementioned panel by His Lordship, the Honorable Chief Judge of Edo State, Honorable Justice D.I. Okungbowa, in accordance with section 188 subsection 5 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, the Panel will commence its sessions at the Judges Conference Room, New High Court Complex, Benin City on Wednesday, the 3rd day of April, 2024 at 10:00 am sharp.
“Parties and/or their legal representation are expected to be present on that day, with the complainant prepared to present its case on the assigned day.”
Recalling the events leading up to this, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Daniel Okungbowa, had on Friday, March 22, 2024, appointed a seven-member panel to investigate the allegations in the impeachment notice against the state’s deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, as per the State House of Assembly’s directive.
The State House of Assembly, on March 6, 2024, issued an impeachment notice to the deputy governor citing alleged misconduct and perjury.
The panel members include Justice S.A. Omonua (rtd), Professor Theresa Akpoghome, Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu, Surveyor Andrew Oliha, Idris Abdulkareen, President Aigbokhian, and Mariam Erakhoba Ilavbare.