***Disengages Ken Mozia, SAN, Others
***Court Adjourns to March 11, 2025

By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja

The legal battle over the controversial impeachment of former Edo State Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, took a new twist on Tuesday as the Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, took over the contempt proceedings against Engr. Marvellous Omobayo Godwins, currently occupying the deputy governor’s seat.

This development led to an adjournment of the case to March 11, 2025, following Osagie’s announcement of his representation of the 2nd to 6th Defendants/Respondents, previously represented by Ken Mozia, SAN, and other legal practitioners.
Appearing before the court, the Attorney General stated that since assuming office two months ago, he had not been briefed by any lawyer regarding the state’s representation in the matter. According to him, there was no official record of the case file in his office except for the recent hearing notices served on him.
“In my capacity as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, I have a duty to represent the state parties involved in this case,” Osagie told the court.
The case stems from the Federal High Court ruling by Justice James Omotosho, which last year declared null and void the impeachment of Comrade Philip Shaibu.

Following his removal, Shaibu was denied access to his office by the then Governor Godwin Obaseki. In response, Shaibu filed contempt proceedings against Omobayo, who was appointed as deputy governor by the Obaseki administration despite the court’s ruling.

Engr. Omobayo was served Form 48 and later Form 49, both of which pertain to contempt of court and impersonation as deputy governor of the state.
With this latest legal maneuver, Omobayo’s fate hangs in the balance. If the court upholds the contempt charge, he could be facing imprisonment in Kuje Prison unless an alternative resolution is reached before the next hearing.

For now, the case has been adjourned to March 11, 2025, as all parties prepare for the next stage of legal arguments.

This power struggle highlight the political tensions in Edo State as the fallout from Shaibu’s controversial impeachment remains unresolved.

The Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has honored the late Major General Godwin Osagie Abbe, describing him as an exemplary leader whose legacy will forever inspire Edo State and the nation.

Speaking at the commendation and funeral service held at the United Baptist Church in Benin City, Mrs. Anani celebrated the life and contributions of the late elder statesman, emphasizing his dedication to public service and the lasting impact he made in his lifetime.

“Today, we gather not only to mourn but to celebrate a life well-lived,” Mrs. Anani said. “Major General Godwin Abbe was a distinguished son of Edo State, a man of integrity, and a leader who inspired countless individuals. His footprints are etched in the sands of time, and his legacy will continue to guide us.”

She extended her condolences to the bereaved family, urging them to find solace in the General’s outstanding life and contributions.
“Your patriarch lived a life of service, honor, and devotion. The public holds him in high regard, and we trust you will carry forward his legacy with pride,” she added.

The Most Revd. Dr. Osama Usunalele (JP), Archbishop of the United Baptist Church Mission of Nigeria, delivered a sermon extolling the virtues of the late General.
He described him as a devout Christian and a selfless patriot whose contributions extended beyond his military and political career into the broader Christian community.

“Major General Abbe’s life reminds us of the value of service and the importance of faith. Though he has left this world, he has left a legacy that challenges us all to live purposefully and contribute meaningfully to society,” the Archbishop said.

Major General Godwin Osagie Abbe, who passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 75, served as a Minister of Defence and Interior during his illustrious career.
Renowned for his leadership, he was a pillar of strength and a dedicated public servant who left an indelible mark on Edo State and Nigeria.

As his family, friends, and colleagues bid him farewell, his legacy remains a source of inspiration, reminding all of the enduring value of service, integrity, and faith.

In a decisive step toward advancing Edo State’s development agenda, Governor Monday Okpebholo on Monday inaugurated a new crop of leaders, including the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), six Commissioners, and the heads of critical state commissions.
The chief press secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua in a statement indicated that the ceremony, which held the New Festival Hall in Benin City, marked a significant milestone in Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to reshaping Edo State’s governance framework for greater efficiency and impact.
Governor Okpebholo, addressing the appointees, emphasized the importance of their roles in delivering on the administration’s promises to the people of Edo State.
He charged them to prioritize teamwork, integrity, and innovation as they step into their new offices.
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the people of Edo State. This team has been carefully selected to help us accelerate development. Your task is not just to serve but to inspire hope, deliver results, and leave a legacy of excellence.”

The governor administered the oath of office on the new chairman of SUBEB, Onomen Goodness Briggs, six Commissioners in the personalities of, Sir Lucky Eseigbe, Hon. Paul Nosayaba Ohonbamu, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu,Hon. Dr. Washington Osa Osifo, Mr. Andrew Ijegbai and Barr. Marie Olabisi Idaomi.
The statement indicated that specific portfolios for the new Commissioners will be announced shortly.

Other appointees who were also sworn in included EDSIEC Chairman,Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, EDSOGPADEC Chairman, Francis Osaretin Osabuohien and the SSEB Chairman, Omozane Ebanehita Sonia
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated officials, Hon. Paul Nosayaba Ohonbamu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, pledging their collective dedication to advancing the state’s development goals.
“We are honoured by this trust, and we assure the people of Edo State that we will deliver practical and impactful governance.”
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Gani Audu, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Samson Osagie, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Phillip Shaibu and the immediate-past APC State Chairman, Col. David Imuse (Rtd.) Among others.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of optimism for the state’s future, as Governor Okpebholo’s administration continues to strengthen the foundation for sustainable development.