***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.

In a bold move to improve the educational landscape in Edo State, the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Barr. Onome Goodness Briggs, marked the 2025 International Education Day by visiting schools in Benin City to assess their challenges and chart a path for progress.

Barr. Briggs, who visited the Family Support Programme (FSP) School in Ikpokpan GRA and Maria Goretti Grammar School, highlighted the state government’s commitment to revitalizing the education system under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
The visit was aligned with the global theme of this year’s celebration, “AI for Education,” which emphasizes the integration of technology into learning.

During her visit to the FSP School, she inspected classrooms, assessed pupils’ educational materials, and interacted with students on their reading abilities.
She expressed concern over the school’s lack of teachers and the state of its facilities, noting that, despite having over 300 students, the school operates with just eight teachers.

At Maria Goretti Grammar School, the SUBEB Chairman engaged with students and teachers, assessed academic activities, and reviewed character boards designed to instill moral values, a key pillar of Edo State’s educational policy. She commended the school for its inclusive approach, particularly its employment of persons with disabilities to manage specialized classes.

Speaking on her observations, Barr. Briggs stated, “International Education Day is an opportunity to reflect on our progress and challenges in education. Today’s visits reveal both the resilience of our teachers and the pressing need for improvement.
“Governor Okpebholo is committed to creating an educational system where every Edo child thrives. Our push for AI integration and better infrastructure is just the beginning.”

She lauded teachers for their dedication and assured them of government support, promising a strategic plan to address the shortage of teachers and revamp school infrastructure.

Head Teacher of FSP Primary School, Mrs. Mercy Ajibade, highlighted the school’s struggles, stating, “We face a severe shortage of teachers, and our infrastructure needs urgent attention. We’re grateful for the government’s commitment to improving our situation.”

Barr. Briggs concluded her visit with a renewed promise to upscale the state’s education system, emphasizing the role of technology and inclusivity in building a brighter future for Edo State’s children.

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.