The former deputy governor of Edo state, Philip Shaibu has rejected his impeachment.
Shaibu was impeached on Monday after members of the Edo assembly adopted the report of a seven-member investigative panel.
The panel was set up by Daniel Okungbowa, chief judge of Edo, and was headed by S. A. Omonuwa, a retired justice.
Shaibu was accused of “misconduct, perjury, and disclosure of government secrets”.
After the impeachment, the Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki, picked Omobayo Godwin as his deputy and was subsequently sworn in.
However, speaking in a video he posted on his X handle, Shaibu said the allegations levelled against him by the lawmakers were “trumped-up charges” and a smokescreen to conceal the real motive of those who wanted him out.
He said he was impeached because of his desire to contest the 2024 Edo governorship election.
Shaibu said, “I denounce in the strongest terms the illegal impeachment by the Edo state house of assembly over trumped-up charges.
“This is not just an attack on me as an individual but on the democratic principles we hold dear.”
“It is a dangerous descent into dictatorship and a threat to the foundation of our democracy.
“Let it be clear that this impeachment was hatched because of my ambition to contest the 2024 Edo state governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party.
“An ambition that is a legal right of all citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is a sad reality that, in our political landscape, ambition is met with resistance, and those in power seek to silence opposition through illegitimate means. I have dedicated my life to serving the good people of Edo state with integrity and honesty.
“The injustice meted on me will be fought with every iota of strength for the sake of the people of the state.”
He said he believes that the legal system will vindicate him while calling on the people of the state to rise against the injustice.
