The outgoing Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki has been told to take the path of honour and obey the subsisting court judgement reinstating his estranged deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu as the duly elected Deputy Governor of Edo State.

Shaibu made the call in a statement issued by his media team on Tuesday following the decision of the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss the application of stay of execution brought before it by the Edo State government and the Edo State House of Assembly against his reinstatement.

Describing the decision of the court presided over by Justice James Omotosho as a "resounding affirmation of the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice, protecting citizens’ rights, and defending democracy", Shaibu said Obaseki must now honour this latest ruling.

"It is time to put the interests of Edo State above personal agendas and respect the rule of law. The court has consistently held that Comrade Shaibu’s impeachment was illegal, unconstitutional, and void, violating sections 188 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended)," Shaibu said.

24th September, 2024

Press Statement:

Re: Federal High Court, Abuja Reaffirms Reinstatement of Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu as Edo State Deputy Governor

We, the Hon. Philip Shaibu (HPS) Media Team, warmly welcome the landmark judgment delivered today by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, reaffirming the reinstatement of our principal, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, as the duly elected Deputy Governor of Edo State.

A Victory for Democracy and the Rule of Law

Today’s judgment is a resounding affirmation of the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice, protecting citizens’ rights, and defending democracy. Justice James Omotosho’s courageous decision to dismiss the application of stay of execution brought by Governor Godwin Obaseki and the state House of Assembly is a testament to the court’s independence and integrity.

A Call to Obey the Court Order

We urge Governor Obaseki to take the path of honour and obey this latest ruling. It is time to put the interests of Edo State above personal agendas and respect the rule of law. The court has consistently held that Comrade Shaibu’s impeachment was illegal, unconstitutional, and void, violating sections 188 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).

Immediate Actions Required

Governor Obaseki must:
1. Obey the Court Order: Restore Comrade Shaibu’s salaries and allowances as Deputy Governor.
2. Respect the Office of the Deputy Governor: Refrain from attacking the institution and stopping Shaibu from performing his duties.
3. Pay the Awarded Fine: Promptly pay the N200,000 fine awarded against each appellant for wasting the court’s time.

Commendation and Gratitude

We commend:
1. Justice James Omotosho for his courageous judgment.
2. The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, for restoring Comrade Shaibu’s security details since July as directed by the court.
3. All lovers of democracy for standing tall with Comrade Shaibu.

Conclusion

Today’s judgment is a victory for democracy, and we celebrate this triumph with Comrade Shaibu and the good people of Edo State. We remain committed to upholding the principles of justice, equity, and fairness.

Signed:

HPS MEDIA TEAM

#Ofonee

In a significant legal victory, the High Court of Justice in Benin has ruled in favour of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a former governorship candidate and his company I.O. Farms in a high-stakes land dispute with the Edo State Government and its Governor, Godwin Obaseki.

The ruling comes same day the Federal High Court in Abuja failed to set aside the reinstatement of Comrade Philip Shaibu as Edo State Deputy Governor as sought by the Obaseki-led state government.

The court’s judgment, delivered in suit number 8/637/2021, centered on the defendant, Obaseki’s purported revocation of the claimant, Ize-Iyamu’s right of occupancy to a parcel of land located in Amagba Village, Benin City.

After carefully examining the case, the court unequivocally sided with Pastor Ize-Iyamu, declaring the revocation as unconstitutional, illegal, and invalid.

The landmark ruling highlighted several key legal violations by the Edo State Government. First, the court stated that the governor’s revocation of the claimants’ land rights failed to adhere to the due process mandated by Section 28 of the Land Use Act of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The defendants were found to have disregarded the proper procedures required when revoking land for “overriding public interest.”

Furthermore, the court granted a perpetual injunction, restraining the defendants and their agents from encroaching on the disputed land. This decisive move ensures that Pastor Ize-Iyamu and I.O. Farms retain full and unhindered rights to the property.

In addition to restoring the claimants’ land rights, the court awarded substantial damages. Pastor Ize-Iyamu and I.O. Farms were granted ₦5 million in general damages, as well as ₦200,000 in legal costs, to compensate for the trespass committed by the defendants.

This victory holds significant implications, not only for Pastor Ize-Iyamu but also for the broader issue of land ownership rights in Nigeria. The court’s ruling reinforces the importance of adhering to the Land Use Act and the due process required when government authorities seek to revoke land rights, even for purported public interest purposes.

Residents of Edo State have reacted with a mix of shock and outrage, particularly in light of reports that the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki has also reportedly revoked the certificate of occupancy of a late Benin billionaire, Captain Hosa Okunbor’s farmland. Many have decried these actions as “extraordinary wickedness” and a continuation of the governor’s perceived vendetta against his political opponents.

For Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, this legal victory represents a significant triumph, not only in the immediate dispute but also in upholding the integrity of the judiciary and the rule of law. The High Court’s ruling serves as a testament to the importance of persevering in the pursuit of justice, even in the face of powerful adversaries.

Quashed Impeachment: Court Fixes Oct 24 to Hear Shaibu’s Contempt Suit against Omobayo

By Isioma Ogochukwu

A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed October 24 for the hearing of a contempt charge filed by the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo, Philip Shaibu, against Godwins Omobayo, over refusal to obey court judgment.

Justice James Omotosho fixed the date after Shaibu’s counsel, Reuben Egwuaba, told the court that a contempt charge had been filed for the committal of Omobayo, who took over as deputy governor, to prison due to his refusal to comply with the valid order of the court which reinstated Shaibu as Deputy Governor.

Justice Omotosho also directed that Omobayo be served with all the court documents, including Form 49, filed on September 19 to be given the opportunity to purge himself of the contempt charge.

“This matter is hereby adjourned to 24th day of October for hearing of the motion on notice dated 13th September and filed 19th September seeking for committal of Engr Marvellous Godwins Omobayo and to give him opportunity to defend himself.

“I hereby made an order that the motion be served on Marvelous Godwins Omobayo to enable him file necessary defence ,” the judge said.

Earlier, Egwuaba prayed for a short adjournment since the current state government’s tenure would be coming to an end on Novrmber 12.

Omobayo was, on April 8, sworn in as the new deputy governor by Governor Godwin Obaseki after Shaibu’s impeachment by the state’s House of Assembly.

In July, Justice Omotosho nullified the removal of Shaibu as deputy governor.

The judge held that Shaibu’s impeachment by the state house of assembly was illegal and “politically motivated”.

The judge ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement and directed the inspector-general of police to restore his security detail.

However, despite the valid order, Omobayo has continued to parade himself as deputy governor, prompting Shaibu to file a contempt of court suit against him.

ETSAKO-WEST CAMPAIGN COUNCIL CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE!!!

Congratulations! Congratulations!!

I humbly congratulate all members of Etsako West Campaign Council for the victory recorded in the just concluded Edo gubernatorial election.

Without a doubt, Etsako West Campaign Council ran a very robust campaign that saw us traversing the entire wards, communities, streets, and polling units in the Local Government Area. This would not have been achieved without the deep commitment of members of the Campaign Council.

The results realized from the local government, placing it as the local government with the second highest votes in the state, is a direct reflection of the effectiveness of our campaign.

I therefore say, kudos to the entire team for the incredible achievement! Your dedication, hard work, commitment, and teamwork have led to this moment.

Once again, congratulations to you all.

Hon Rtn Yakubu Musa
COORDINATOR, Etsako West Campaign Council

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, on Tuesday, reaffirmed the reinstatement of Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu as the Edo State Deputy Governor.

The court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, dismissed the application of stay of execution brought before it by the Obaseki-led Edo State government and the state House of Assembly against the reinstatement of Shaibu.

Dissatisfied with the application before him by the Appellants, Justice Omotosho said he cannot grant the application as he earlier gave a judgement reinstating Shaibu.

He, therefore, dismissed the application with a fine of 200 thousand naira (#200,000.00) each against the Appellants.

Justice Omotosho had earlier in July, 2024 reinstated Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, months after he was impeached by the state assembly.

The court declared the impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly as illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void.

It held that the said impeachment was in gross violation of the provisions of both sections 188 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

The judge held that the impeachment was in gross violation of the Constitution.

Aside from reinstating Shaibu, the court also ordered that his salaries and allowances should be paid to him from April when he was impeached as the deputy governor of the state.

The court issued an order of perpetual injunction restraining Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Edo State House of Assembly from stopping Shaibu from performing the functions of his office.

Justice Omotosho also ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun to restore his security details which the IGP had complied with.

The Inpector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has suspended the activities of the state-owned Edo State Security Network (ESSN) set up by Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State 'till further notice.'

The IGP made the pronouncement at the ongoing stakeholders meeting on the Edo Governorship Election taking place in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The meeting, organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is part of the schedule of activities leading to the September 21, 2024 election.

Ahead of the poll, there have been calls from various quarters for the disbandment of the ESSN over fears that they would serve as 'useful tools' in the hands of the governor against the opposition

Bishops10:
Campus gist my man.....you're doing great bro

Ahead of the Friday, August 23, 2024 10,000 students’ march against electoral violence by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, the Edo State Police Command has assured the students of maximum security.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Nemo Edwin-Iwo, gave the assurance when he received members of NANS, Edo State, on a courtesy visit to his office in Benin City on Tuesday.

A statement issued by Comrade O. S. Isioma, Director of Press in the Office of NANS Chairman said the student leaders were led by Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen, Chairman of NANS in the state.

“I can assure you all of maximum security. We are here to protect you all. We would not allow any infiltration. We will be there to provide security to make sure everything goes smoothly,” the CP was quoted as saying, thanking the NANS leaders for the visit.

CP Edwin-Iwo assured the deployment of significant human and operational resources to protect the students and uphold law and order, issuing a clear warning to potential troublemakers.

Responding, Chairman Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen thanked the CP for the warm reception and collaboration, communicating specific plans for the march and approved routes to the police command.

He congratulated CP Edwin-Iwo on his deployment and assumption of office as the new CP, assuring continued collaboration between NANS and the Edo police command.

The meeting had in attendance members of NANS, Edo State (Office of the Chairman) and senior police officers.

Gbajabiamila1:

Great!
Very Good.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, has scheduled Friday, August 23, 2024 for a 10,000 students’ march in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, has scheduled Friday March 23, 2024 for a 10,000 students’ march in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Chairman of the NANS JCC, Edo State axis, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to newsmen in Benin City.

He said the 10,000 students’ march is against electioneering violence in view of the forthcoming September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo state.

Comrade Omuokhonlen noted that the peaceful march will involve all higher institutions and NANS members across Edo state, beginning from five junction down to the popular King’s Square.

While clarifying its purpose and intentions, the NANS Chairman said the march is not politically motivated, state-sponsored or targeted at select authorities, personalities and individuals.

“Contrary to opinions, the march — NOT a protest — is borne out of a sincere and genuine heart. We are not targeting any person or office, nor is the march sponsored by anybody or government.

“I challenge any public office holder who claims to have contributed to the planning process or sponsored us to come forward with proof and undeniable evidence.

“As the theme: ‘Marching for the survival of Nigerian Students in Edo State’ suggests, we are only marching for our survival and safety, and saying NO to electoral violence in our dear state during the forthcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election.”

He said the march will demand the safety of students, particularly those serving as Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ad-hoc officers during the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

“For instance, it is a widely known fact that our fellow students usually serve as Ad-hoc officers to INEC during elections. As representatives of the students, it is our responsibility to ensure their safety at all times.

“Therefore, it is not out of place to demand for our safety before, during and after the election. We are also asking that the sanctity of the electoral system be maintained and upheld by political actors and the electoral umpire.”

According to Comrade Omuokhonlen, the march is also an avenue to draw the incoming state government’s attention to the Students’ Community, emphasizing that it must never be neglected.

“We deserve representation in government and a voice in decision-making processes that affect our lives. We demand students’ inclusiveness in governance of our dear state.

“Even as the electioneering campaign process is ongoing, we have barely heard from candidates about their plans for the students and students’ community if elected.

“Like some of our counterparts in other states, we the ever-corrosive, indomitable, intellectual, great and i-can-never-be intimidated Nigerian students in Edo state equally deserve support for our education, such as state bursary and special educational grants from time to time”, he said

The statement noted that as representatives of the students, with their welfare paramount, the march will also avail NANS the opportunity and avenue to empower the students with school fees payment by the NANS Chairman, free power banks, Ambassadorial roles to NANS, airtime, and more.

“To be clear, our march has absolutely nothing to do with any particular institution but encompasses all institutions across the state. We are therefore using this medium to disassociate ourselves from any similar gathering or arrangement targeting or singling out any institution, office or person as we are not part of it. Our march will hold at the city centre and hearts of Benin and not within the campuses or prescint of the school.

“We reiterate that our peaceful march is neither a protest nor demonstration. We are only embarking on a pro-students’ solidarity/awareness walk/march. We are already making all the necessary arrangements with the relevant security agencies in the state to guarantee the safety of our students and public infrastructure.”

The NANS Chairman enjoined all students to join the students’ body as they march for the survival, safety, and welfare of Nigerian students in Edo State, noting, “together, we can make our voices heard and create a better future.”

SirJerrie:
What's the Student Union's take on the matter?

The management of University of Benin (UNIBEN), has directed all the students of the school to sign a compulsory affidavit of undertaking never to sponsor or participate in any assembly or demonstration on the campuses and their precincts.

The university also ordered the students to sign an affidavit of undertaking to abide by the arrangement(s) put in place by the university management for the supply, distribution and utilisation of electricity on its campuses.

The institution announced these in a memo issued on Wednesday where it announced August 11 for the resumption of academic activities after the school was closed for over a month since July 4, following students’ protest against power outage in the school.

The university in a memo signed by its Registrar, Mr. A.A. Bobola, on Thursday vowed to withhold results of any student who fails to sign the affidavit of undertaking.

On the issues that led to the closure of the university, the management noted that issues concerning electricity and water supply, renovation of Halls of Residence, have been taken care of.

The memo reads in part, “In tandem with the position of the Governing Council, Senate and critical Stakeholders of the University, and after due review of the current atmosphere in the Country, the University Management has decided as follows:

“Students are to come into the Halls of Residence on Sunday, August 11, 2024; lectures are to resume on Monday, August 12, 2024; and each returning student is to swear to an Affidavit of Undertaking to be of good conduct while in the University.

“The Affidavit must contain the cardinal points as captured in the attached document.

“The Sworn Affidavit should be uploaded on the Student’s Kofa page while the hard-copy should be submitted to the Departmental Course Adviser.

“Students are expected to complete this process within two weeks of resumption, and in any case not beyond the end of 2023/2024 academic session, else the result of any defaulting student will not be released.

“Students are enjoined to take note of the foregoing and comply as appropriate.”

For the affidavit of undertaking, the univerisity noted that, “All Students returning to the University of Benin must depose to an Affidavit of Undertaking to be of Good Conduct that must contain the following cardinal points:

“Full Name, Department and Faculty of Student; Matriculation Number of Student.

“To undertake as follows: to abide by the arrangement(s) put in place by the University Management for the supply, distribution and utilization of electricity on the campuses of the University of Benin.

“To pay outstanding school charges upon resumption as eligibility for examinations will henceforth be strictly based on presentation of evidence of payment of approved school charges.

“Not to bring any prohibited appliances, such as hot plate, ring boiler, gas cooker etc into the Halls of Residence, as violation of this rule shall attract rustication of such a Student.

“Not to be involved in any unruly conduct that is against the Rules and Regulations of the University, and to be of good conduct, and not to sponsor or participate in any unauthorized assembly or demonstration within the campuses and their precincts.”

Recall that in July, following protests by students against power outage in the institution, the UNIBEN authorities suspended academic activities indefinitely and oedered students out of hostels.

Spokesperson for the university, Dr Benedicta Ehanire, who announced the closure in a statement she personally signed, said the decision was hinged on the refusal of the students to shift grounds on their demands for 24 hours electricity.

The university was thrown into a blackout by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) following the inability to reach agreement over contentious electricity billings.

The electricity bill of the federal-owned university increased from about N80 million to almost N280 million, following the recent tariff hike for Band A electricity consumers, where UNIBEN falls under.

UNIBEN was initially forced to implement power shedding, restoring power to the halls of residence for four hours at night (7-11 pm) and two hours during the day (5-7am), a situation the students kicked against, leading to the varsity’s closure.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, has denied the constitution of a Convention Planning Committee (CPC) for fresh JCC elections in the state.

This is in reaction to a statement credited to Comrade Isaac Ogieva, Deputy Coordinator of NANS Zone B, who purportedly constituted a CPC to oversee the conduct of fresh JCC elections in Edo.

In a statement jointly signed by the NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen, and Secretary General, Comrade Eguagie Iredia, the students’ body described Ogieva’s action as a clear contravention of the NANS Constitution and a blatant attempt to usurp its powers.

The council expressed shock and dismay at Ogieva’s desperation to undermine its authority, even before its tenure has formally come to an end.

The NANS JCC noted that Ogieva failed to consult relevant bodies and stakeholders before embarking on the action, including its Chairman, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel, whose name was mentioned in the release.

The student leaders raised questions about Ogieva’s motives and the interests he serves. The NANS JCC vowed not to stand idly by while its Constitution is trampled upon.

The council also pointed out that the subsection of the NANS Constitution and Charter of Demand cited by Ogieva does not empower him to conduct elections.

The NANS JCC, therefore, declared the CPC list announced by Ogieva as illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void. The council assured Nigerian students that it will continue to serve their interests and uphold the Constitution of the organization.

https://metrowatchxtra.com/2024/08/08/no-constitution-of-cpc-for-fresh-elections-in-edo-says-nans-jcc-metrowatch/

The reinstated Edo State Deputy Governor, Comrade Phillip Shaibu, says he will join hands to build Nigeria rather than burn it down, in an apparent response to Governor Godwin Obaseki’s threats that Nigeria would "burn" if an incident like the recent Benin City Airport attack were to occur again.

In a 41-seconds viral video, Governor Obaseki, while addressing leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warned, “I won’t say much, the rest is up to you. We just kept quiet last Thursday, if they try what happened last Thursday again in Edo, Nigeria will burn.”

“You don’t behave like that. We’ve passed that stage… We’re not animals… The first time we kept quiet and I told all of you that you are the ones that have something to lose does not mean they should take us for granted… Those people who did it, they refuse to arrest them, rather they want to come and arrest our boys. Let them try.”

The Deputy Governor spoke on Monday at a homecoming reception held in his honour at his Jattu country-home, Etsako West local government area, following his reinstatement by the court as the state’s number two citizen.

Shaibu, whose recent travails began after he declared his intention to succeed Governor Obaseki, described his ambition as a “divine calling” that will see him build the state and not burn it down as others (Obaseki) have said.

“My ambition to serve the good people of Edo was fought and to them, denied, but justice will prevail,” the deputy governor wrote on his official and verified social media pages.

“It’s a divine calling that will see me and others build our state and not BURN it down as others have said out of their desperation.”

He thanked Afemais (Edo North people) for coming out in their thousands to receive him as he returned home on a ‘thank you’ visit.

With joy in their hearts, the people ushered the court-reinstated deputy governor into the city of Auchi with songs, prayers, chants, and hailings in their loudest voices.

“My return home will see me tour houses and palaces of royal fathers, chiefs, clergymen, political bigwigs, and the people, who stood solidly behind me in the last year of my trying time against political tyrants,” Shaibu noted.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, on Saturday, formally rejoined the All Progressives Congress, APC, from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

This was durung the inauguration of the Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu-led APC Edo 2024 Governorship National Campaign Counci held in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

It was an emotional moment as Shaibu walked straight to where former Governor of the state, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, was seated at the venue and knelt before him, drawing applause from party supporters.

Taking to his official social media handles, Shaibu tagged pictures of him with Oshiomhole, whom he had consistently described as his father, “Father and Son!.”

Shaibu fell out with Oshiomhole, his then benefactor, during the former governor’s face-off with the incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki, in the Edo 2020 gubernatorial election.

During the rift between Obaseki and Oshiomhole, Shaibu stood behind Obaseki against Oshiomhole, noting that the former governor was playing godfather when they both never allowed such to happen in Edo State.

Meanwhile, the deputy governor was accompanied by prominent members of the Dan Orbih-led Legacy Group of the PDP as he made his return to APC.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt Hon Comrade Phillip Shaibu, has officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Shaibu dumped the ruling PDP in the state for the APC at a campaign rally held on Saturday in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

He was received into the party by the APC’s governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa.

He led hundreds of prominent leaders and members of the Legacy PDP Coalition led by the party's National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih, across the state into the APC.

The reinstated Deputy Governor also used the defection rally to reunite with his political godfather, a former Edo State Governor and APC National Chairman, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.

Recall that a Federal High Court in Abuja had nullified Shaibu’s impeachment on charges of gross misconduct by the Edo State House of Assembly.

The reinstated Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu has approved the appointments of eight persons to assist in the dischage of his duties as the state’s number two citizen.

In a statement on Friday, signed by Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, Comrade Musa Ebomhiana, nine officials have been appointed as Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants respectively.

They include Hon. Kingsley Ehigiamusor as Chief of Staff, Comrade Musa Ebomhiana as Chief Press Secretary, Hon. Emmanuel Akhaba as Senior Special Assistant, Mustapha Lawal as Senior Special Assistant and Mr. Charles Olubayo as Senior Special Assistant.

Others are Mathias Akhanemhe as Special Assistant, Comrade Robinson Akhenoba as Special Assistant, Robert Ojele as Special Assistant, and Isioma Ogochukwu as Special Assistant.

This appointments, according to the release, takes immediate effect.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, reinstated Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State, months after he was unlawfully impeached by the state assembly in April 2024.