Impeached Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has condemned the process as unconstitutional and undemocratic, alleging his ouster as a ploy to hinder his bid to succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In a video shared online, Shaibu emphasized that his impeachment stemmed from his declaration of intent to contest the state governorship position under the People’s Democratic Party; a legitimate aspiration within the rights afforded to citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Its a sad reality that in our political landscape, ambition is met with resistance and those in power seek to silent opposition through illegitimate means.
“I have dedicated my life to serving the good people of Edo state with integrity and honesty. I have worked tirelessly to improve the life of our citizens and uphold the values of democracy and justice, yet in return I am faced with baseless accusations and a blatant disregard for the due process and rule of law.
“The allegation brought against me are nothing more than post screen to conceal the true motive of this impeachment. Its a blatant abuse of power and a betrayal of the trust that the people of Edo has placed in their elected officials.
READ ALSO: Gov. Obaseki names Omobayo as deputy in wake of Shaibu’s impeachment
“We refuse to stay inactive while our democratic institutions manipulate and exploit for personal gain. We will fight this injustice with every iota of strength in our being for the sake of our democracy,” he said.
Shaibu called upon Edo citizens to stand with him in this moment of crisis stating ‘we cannot allow tyranny and oppression to take roots in our society’.
Credible News had earlier reported that Shaibu was impeached during the house’s plenary session on Monday in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
His impeachment followed the adoption of the report of a seven-man committee set up by the chief judge of Edo Edo State Justice Daniel Okungbowa to investigate allegations of misconduct against the deputy governor, which he was found guilty of disclosing official secret.
Meanwhile, Gov. Godwin Obaseki has named Omobayo Godwin to fill the vacancy left by Shaibu’s removal from office as deputy governor.
Credible News.ng
