A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the recently imposed deputy governor of Edo State, Marvelous Omobayo, to appear in court or face imprisonment.
The ruling, delivered on Thursday, is the latest chapter in a political and legal drama that has gripped the state for months.
Justice James Omotosho issued the order following an ex parte motion filed by Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of Edo State.
Shaibu, who was controversially removed from office, is now locked in a bitter legal battle to reclaim his position.
Court Orders Omobayo’s Appearance
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho directed Omobayo to appear before the court on November 4, 2024.
If he fails to show up, the judge warned that Omobayo would face imprisonment.
The court ordered that Omobayo be served the notice through the Edo State Government House to ensure that he is aware of the legal proceedings.
The order was issued in response to a suit filed by Shaibu, who is challenging his removal and the appointment of Omobayo as deputy governor.
Omobayo, who was installed by Governor Godwin Obaseki, is now under intense pressure to defend his appointment in court.
Background of the Political Battle
The political tension in Edo State began earlier this year when Governor Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, had a public falling out.
Shaibu had been a loyal ally of Obaseki, but their relationship soured after disagreements over political strategy and control of the state’s political machinery.
This led to Shaibu’s controversial removal from office, a move that has been challenged in court.
The state’s political scene was thrown into disarray when Omobayo was appointed as the new deputy governor by Obaseki, sparking widespread protests and legal challenges.
Many observers believe that Shaibu’s removal was politically motivated, as he was seen as a potential rival to Obaseki’s influence within the state.
Shaibu’s Legal Challenge
Philip Shaibu has refused to back down from the fight to reclaim his position as deputy governor.
His legal team has been working tirelessly to reverse what they describe as an “illegal and unconstitutional” removal from office.
Speaking through his lawyer, Shaibu has vowed to pursue his case to the highest court in the land if necessary.
“Our client has been wrongfully removed from office, and we are confident that the court will restore justice,” said one of Shaibu’s lawyers.
He added that the case was not just about Shaibu but about upholding the rule of law and democracy in Edo State.
Omobayo Under Pressure
Marvelous Omobayo, who was appointed as deputy governor in the midst of the controversy, now faces a legal battle to justify his position.
The court’s ruling that he must appear on November 4, 2024, has put him under significant pressure.
If Omobayo fails to appear, he risks being sentenced to prison, a prospect that could further complicate the political crisis in Edo State.
Observers are closely watching how Omobayo will respond to the court’s order, as his next move could determine the future of the state’s leadership.
Edo State Government’s Response
The Edo State Government, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, has remained largely silent on the court’s order.
However, insiders suggest that the governor is preparing for a prolonged legal battle to defend Omobayo’s appointment.
Obaseki has faced criticism for the way he handled the situation, with some accusing him of using his power to settle political scores.
Many Edo State residents are eager to see how the court case will unfold, as it could have far-reaching implications for the state’s political landscape.
