Philip Shaibu, former Edo Deputy Governor and now Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending democratic principles.
Speaking in Benin on Friday during a press briefing marking the one-year anniversary of the Federal High Court judgment that reinstated him, Shaibu described the ruling as more than a personal triumph, but a “beacon of hope” for the nation’s democracy.
“Democracy only thrives when no one is above the law, and power is treated as a public trust, not personal entitlement,” he said.
He urged politicians, civil servants, and citizens to actively protect democratic institutions from abuse.
The July 12, 2024, judgment by Justice James Omotosho had overturned what he described as an illegal impeachment attempt by the Edo House of Assembly.
The Edo former deputy governor described the court’s intervention as a critical moment in the state’s democratic journey.
“That judgment was a beacon of hope. It proved that democracy, though fragile, can prevail when truth and justice are upheld,” he said.
The NIS director general who reflected on the events leading up to his impeachment, described it as a politically motivated move allegedly engineered by former governor Godwin Obaseki.
“It wasn’t just about removing me. It was about subverting our institutions and betraying the will of the people,” he said.
He criticised the Legislature’s complicity in the episode, accusing it of serving personal interests.
“The instrument of impeachment was bastardised, not used for accountability but for vendetta. The will of the people was hijacked by a clique,” he added.
Shaibu noted that the experience shook public confidence in democratic governance.
According to him, People said to me, if they can do this to you, what hope do we have?’ That was the deepest wound of all.”
He pledged a renewed commitment to public service and democratic ideals, saying “Let’s build institutions, not empires.
“Let’s lead with humility, not hubris. The dream of a better Edo, and a better Nigeria, is still alive.”
