Former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu on Friday commemorated the first anniversary of the Federal High Court ruling that overturned his impeachment and reinstated him to office.
Shaibu, now serving as Director General of the National Institute for Sports, described the impeachment saga as “one of the darkest chapters in Edo’s democratic journey” during a press briefing in Benin City. His Special Assistant on Media, Ben Ogbemudia, released a statement capturing his remarks.
The former deputy governor alleged that his impeachment was politically motivated and orchestrated by former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
“It wasn’t just about removing me, it was about subverting our institutions and betraying the will of the people,” Shaibu stated. “That judgment was a beacon of hope. It proved that democracy, though fragile, can prevail when truth and justice are upheld.”
Reflecting on the 2024 events, Shaibu criticized the Edo State House of Assembly for acting as a “rubber stamp” to serve personal interests rather than upholding democratic principles.
“The instrument of impeachment was bastardized, not used for accountability but for vendetta. The will of the people was hijacked by a clique,” he said.
Shaibu recalled the disillusionment among citizens during the crisis: “People said to me, ‘If they can do this to you, what hope do we have?’ That was the deepest wound of all.”
He praised the judiciary for restoring faith in democracy, stating: “Justice may be delayed, but it can never be permanently denied.”
The former deputy governor called on Nigerians across all sectors to remain vigilant in protecting democratic values. “Democracy only thrives when no one is above the law, and when power is treated as a public trust, not a personal entitlement,” he emphasized.
Shaibu expressed gratitude to his legal team, supporters, and family for standing by him during the ordeal. He also issued a pointed message to those behind his impeachment: “No one is bigger than the law. The will of the people cannot be silenced.”
Concluding his address, Shaibu reaffirmed his commitment to public service and institutional strengthening. “Let’s build institutions, not empires. Let’s lead with humility, not hubris. The dream of a better Edo, and a better Nigeria, is still alive.”
