The impeachment of Philip Shaibu, the former deputy governor of Edo State, has raised concerns about the politics of high-handedness in Nigeria. Shaibu was impeached by the state's House of Assembly following a strained relationship with Governor Godwin Obaseki. The impeachment was seen as a power play, with allegations against Shaibu being viewed as spurious and the Assembly members believed to have been influenced by the governor. The strained relationship between Obaseki and Shaibu stemmed from Shaibu's refusal to step down from his ambition of becoming governor, despite the state's zoning arrangement. Critics argue that high-handedness in Nigerian politics should be addressed, and that the choice of a leader should be based on the people's decision rather than political arrangements or formulas. The judiciary in Nigeria is also criticized for its lack of independence and financial autonomy, as judges and other judicial officers are dependent on the executive for their sustenance. The impeachment of Shaibu highlights the need for a more independent judiciary and a fairer political process.
In a related development, the governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has received a second ticket due to his popularity. The Election Petition Tribunal affirmed Uzodimma as the winner of the November 11 governorship election, winning all 27 local government areas. Uzodimma has been praised for his infrastructure development and policies aimed at turning around the economic fortune of the state. The Labour Party has opposed the tribunal judgment and alleged over-voting and non-compliance to the Electoral Act. However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) spokesman, Cajethan Duke, dismissed these allegations, stating that the burden of proof lies with the accusers. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was also accused of involvement in illegalities, but Duke defended INEC's credibility. The LP governorship candidate plans to take the matter to the Supreme Court, but the APC is not worried. The governor has been credited with significant infrastructure development in the state, although some critics claim he has not performed in certain areas. Overall, Duke emphasizes the governor's popularity and commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Imo State. [6442d7a7] [2fab0eab]