Following the reinstatement of Comrade Philip Shaibu as Deputy Governor of Edo State by a Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, the State Government has filed a stay of execution of the judgment before the Court of Appeal. The government insists that Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains the State’s deputy governor pending the final determination of the case.

Hon. Chris Nehikhare, the State’s Commissioner for Orientation and Communication, made this announcement in a statement on Wednesday. He said, “Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgment, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains and continues to serve as the valid Deputy Governor of Edo State. He will continue to serve in this capacity and will be recognized as such. The government hereby calls on the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.”

Earlier, Justice James Omotoso of the Federal High Court in Abuja had nullified the impeachment of Philip Shaibu as Deputy Governor by the State House of Assembly. The court ruled that Shaibu’s impeachment and removal from office violated the provisions of the law. Consequently, the court ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement as deputy governor and directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to restore his security details.

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