Impeachment of Philip Shuaibu was a major achievement, says Edo Speaker
By Innocent Raphael
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has declared the impeachment of former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu as a significant accomplishment for the House.
Agbebaku made these comments during a press briefing marking the first anniversary of the 8th Assembly.
Philip Shaibu was impeached on March 8, 2024, following a verdict by a seven-man panel led by Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa.
The panel found Shaibu guilty of disclosing government information to the public, which prompted the Speaker to initiate the impeachment process.
Agbebaku emphasized that the impeachment process was executed meticulously. “The process of the impeachment was followed to the letter,” he stated.
“To me, I stand tall to say that the impeachment of the former deputy governor is a good record because we are doing our legislative duty. That also showed that the 8th Assembly is very independent.”
Shaibu’s impeachment marks a historic first for the region, spanning from the Midwest region, Bendel State, to the present-day Edo State.
In addition to discussing the impeachment, Agbebaku addressed the suspension of three lawmakers on May 6, 2024. The suspended legislators—Donald Okogbe (PDP Akoko-Edo II), Bright Iyamu (PDP Orhionmwon South), and Addeh Isibor (APC Esan North East I)—were accused of plotting to impeach the Speaker and other principal officers, allegedly under the influence of external forces.
Agbebaku noted that a committee has been established to investigate the suspensions and is expected to submit its report within three weeks, after which the House will decide on the next steps.
Reflecting on the past year, Agbebaku highlighted the House’s legislative achievements, including the passage of 44 resolutions and 16 bills.
These legislative actions, he said, have established clear policy directions and had varied economic, social, political, and religious impacts on the state.
Looking ahead, Agbebaku promised that future bills and resolutions would continue to benefit the development and growth of the constituents of Edo State.
