Edo Politics: Lawmakers ask CJ to set up panel to investigate Deputy Governor 

The Edo State House of Assembly has directed the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa to set up a seven man panel to investigate the allegations levelled against the state deputy governor Philip Shaibu.

The state assembly accused Shaibu of misconduct and divulging governments information to the public.

The panel is expected to carry out a thorough investigation into the allegations and make necessary recommendations.

The brief sitting was presided over by the Speaker, RT Hon Blessing Agbebaku.

It would be recalled that the lawmakers earlier this month, began an impeachment move against Shaibu, accusing him of constitutional infractions.

But, Shaibu, denied being served with impeachment notice from the state House of Assembly as claimed by the Speaker, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku during plenary.

The inability of the House, according to the Speaker, to physically serve Shaibu led to a substituted service through advertorial in the newspaper.

Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to the Speaker dated March 12, 2024 and titled “RE: Service of Impeachment Notice,” signed by the Personal Assistant to the Deputy Governor, Charles Olubayo, Shaibu denied ever being served any letter and refusing to collect same.

He said Shaibu has been out of the state since March 3 and therefore could not have been served as claimed during plenary.

His supporters, however, believe that he is being persecuted because he is interested to succeed his boss in office, Gov Godwin Obaseki.

Shaibu emerged as the governorship candidate in a parallel primary election held on February 22, 2024.