In a major legal victory for the rule of law, the Federal High Court in Abuja has set aside the impeachment of the deputy governor, declaring it a violation of the Nigerian Constitution.
The court’s ruling came after the deputy governor challenged his removal from office, arguing that the impeachment process was conducted in complete disregard of the constitutionally prescribed procedures.
According to the court’s judgment, the impeachment was in clear violation of Sections 188 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, rendering it unconstitutional, null, and void.
The presiding judge ordered that the deputy governor’s salaries and emoluments be paid to him retroactively, starting from April 8th, the day he was illegally removed from office, until the expiration of his tenure.
Furthermore, the court issued a restraining order, prohibiting the state governor, Godwin Obaseki, and the State House of Assembly from interfering with the deputy governor’s ability to perform his duties and fulfill his constitutional mandate.
This landmark ruling is seen as a significant victory for the principles of due process, separation of powers, and the protection of constitutional rights in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
Legal experts have hailed the court’s decision as a strong message to state-level political actors, cautioning them against circumventing the law and undermining the checks and balances that are essential to a functional democracy.
The case has generated widespread interest and debate, with many Nigerians expressing their hope that this ruling will set a precedent for the strict adherence to the rule of law and the safeguarding of democratic institutions across the country.