Former deputy governor undertakes not to present himself as Edo deputy governor after contempt proceedings are resolved
BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Former Edo State Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo has apologised to Philip Shaibu and undertaken not to present himself as the Deputy Governor of Edo State or perform functions associated with the office.
Omobayo made the undertaking on Friday before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, as contempt proceedings instituted against him by Shaibu came to an end.
The court subsequently struck out the contempt charge after lawyers to both parties informed the court that they had reached an amicable resolution.
Reading his apology and affidavit before the court, Omobayo said he regretted his actions and maintained that he did not intend to disregard the court’s July 17, 2024 judgment.
“I apologise wholeheartedly, and I purge myself of this contempt,” Omobayo told the court.
In the affidavit sworn on September 24, Omobayo said he had resolved the issues with Shaibu.
He also undertook that he would no longer present himself anywhere as the Deputy Governor of Edo State in circumstances contrary to the court order, and would not perform any function relating to the office.
The contempt proceedings followed Justice Omotosho’s July 17, 2024 judgment, which nullified Shaibu’s impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly and ordered his reinstatement as deputy governor.
Shaibu subsequently initiated contempt proceedings, alleging that Omobayo had failed to comply with the judgment and continued to act in relation to the office.
The matter had been scheduled for ruling after Omobayo’s counsel, Ken Mozia, SAN, requested additional time for the parties to pursue an out-of-court settlement.
On Friday, Shaibu’s counsel, Ayotunde Ogunleye, SAN, applied to withdraw the contempt charge following the resolution reached between the parties. Omobayo’s counsel did not oppose the application.
Justice Omotosho subsequently struck out the charge.
The judge stressed the importance of obedience to court orders and the authority of the judiciary, noting that court orders must be respected irrespective of the status of the person involved.
The development brings the contempt proceedings arising from the dispute over the Edo deputy governorship to an end.
