By Ogochukwu Isioma
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.
