The seven-member panel appointed by Justice Daniel Okungbowa, the Chief Judge of Edo State, to look into the accusations of illegality filed against Philip Shaibu, the state deputy governor, got to work on Wednesday.

Justice Okungbowa established the panel, which is led by retired Justice S. A. Omonuwa, after the state House of Assembly passed a resolution that started the impeachment procedure against Shaibu.

Prof. Oladoyin Awoyale (SAN) represented Shaibu at the panel on Wednesday, while Mr. Joe Ohiafi, Deputy Clerk, Legal, represented the House of Assembly.

The disagreement between Shaibu and his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki, is thought to have started when Shaibu declared his intention to compete for Edo governor this year, and the impeachment process is thought to be the most recent development in this relationship.

“Take notice that consequent upon the inauguration of the above panel by His Lordship the Hon. Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Okungbowa, in line with Section 188 Subsection 5 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, the said panel shall commence sitting at Judges Conference room, New High Court Complex, Benin City on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 10am prompt,” as stated in a statement signed by the panel’s administrative secretary, George Odidi, last Thursday.

“Parties and/or their counsel are expected to be present on that day while the complainant is expected to be ready to present its case on that day.”