Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Suyi Ayodele
Published on 2024-04-03 10:25:39
The embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, found himself in a precarious position on Wednesday as he declined to further participate in the proceedings of the seven-man panel set up by the state Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Daniel Okungbowa. This panel was tasked with investigating the allegation of misconduct levelled against Shaibu by the Edo State House of Assembly.
Represented by his counsel, Professor Oladoyin Awoyale (SAN), Shaibu’s decision was based on an order from an Abuja Federal High Court. This court issued an interlocutory injunction halting further proceedings and adjourning the matter to April 8, 2024. Awoyale argued that all parties involved must adhere to the court’s ruling, and continuing with the panel would be seen as going against the court’s decision.
On the other side, the counsel to the House of Assembly, Ohiafi Joe, Deputy Clerk, Legal, Edo State House of Assembly, maintained that the panel’s sitting was constitutionally supported. He emphasized that no court should prevent the House of Assembly and the panel from carrying out their constitutional duties.
The seven-man panel, led by retired Justice S. A. Omonuwa, was established by Justice Okungbowa following the resolution by the Edo State House of Assembly to initiate the impeachment process against Shaibu.
Meanwhile, the panel, particularly Justice S. A. Omonuwa, is set to address a legal issue concerning citations in the legal profession. During the proceedings, Shaibu’s counsel, Professor Awoyale (SAN), made references to several cases but noted that he could not provide immediate physical copies as the citations were electronic, sourced from the Law Pavilion Electronic Law Reports.
In response to this, a panel member, Professor Theresa Akpoghome, raised concerns about the appropriateness of making verbal citations without physical copies. However, Awoyale defended the practice, saying it was allowed and proceeded to provide the references from his phone.
After a thorough discussion of all arguments presented, the panel deliberated on the matter. Awoyale was reminded that the order from the Abuja Federal High Court only required the parties to return to show cause.
As the situation continues to unfold, more details are expected to emerge later. This development highlights the complexities and legal intricacies surrounding the case of the embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State. Stay tuned for further updates from the Nigerian Tribune.
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