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Former Edo Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo on Wednesday asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to suspend its ruling on the contempt charge against him so the parties can explore an out-of-court settlement.
Omobayo is accused of refusing to vacate the deputy governorship position after a July 17, 2024, judgment reinstated Philip Shaibu, who was impeached by the Edo House of Assembly. Justice James Omotosho had fixed Wednesday for the ruling in the contempt proceedings filed by Shaibu.
As the judge began delivering the ruling, Omobayo’s counsel, Ken Mozia (SAN), sought permission to address the court. Mozia said the parties had met and substantially agreed on some issues, but Shaibu’s side sent additional conditions on Friday. He asked for more time to resolve two outstanding issues.
Shaibu’s counsel, Kunle Lawal, confirmed that reconciliation was ongoing and did not oppose the request for a short adjournment. Justice Omotosho, who noted that he does not usually suspend a ruling on the day it is to be delivered, adjourned the matter until Sept. 25 for ruling.
The court had voided Shaibu’s impeachment and ordered his reinstatement, holding that the Edo House of Assembly failed to comply with due process and that the allegation against him did not constitute gross misconduct. Omobayo was sworn in on April 8, 2024, after Shaibu’s impeachment. Shaibu filed the contempt charge after Omobayo allegedly refused to vacate the position. The charge was dated Sept. 13 and filed Sept. 19, 2024.
