The call to halt impeachment process against Deputy Governor Philip Shuaibu of Edo State has gained traction, with Catholic priest Andrew Obinyan urging Governor Godwin Obaseki to intervene.
The impeachment proceedings, initiated by the Edo State House of Assembly on March 6, allege perjury and disclosure of government secrets by Shuaibu.
In a recent statement, Obinyan, who serves as the parish priest of St. Francis Catholic Church in Benin City, Edo State, appealed to Governor Obaseki to allow Shuaibu to address his concerns without resorting to impeachment.
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He stressed the importance of steering clear of retaliatory measures and instead advocated for a path of reconciliation to resolve the matter.
Expressing concern over the potential historical implications of impeaching a deputy governor under the Obaseki administration, Obinyan urged the governor to carefully consider the impact such actions could have on loyalty and future aspirations.
He emphasized the necessity of handling the situation with civility and enlightenment, highlighting the significance of a peaceful resolution over punitive measures.
“May it not be in the annals of Edo political history that there was once a deputy governor, impeached under your watch for his aspiration.”
“It will be perceived as a sting of betrayal, and it will invariably redefine loyalty and aspiration as antithetical.”
He reminded the governor of the support he received during his own political trials, urging him to extend the same support to Deputy Governor Shaibu in his time of need.
“I am not insinuating he must be governor. Yet, we cannot justify an impeachment without putting a wedge on the path of positive advancement in other spheres of life.
“Do yourselves a favour because you don’t know the next victim in sudden political twists and turns.
“Dear Mr. Governor, here is the point. Bear with Comrade Philip Shaibu, not for his sake but for the sake of your own indomitable spirit.”