By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
The former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu has given the real reason why he was impeached earlier today by the Edo State House of Assembly.
Shaibu while reacting to his impeachment in a video he posted on his X handle on Monday said, he was impeached because of his ambition to contest the forthcoming Edo State Governorship Election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
An ambition, he said, is a legal right to all the citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He said, the impeachment was not just an attack on him as an individual, but on the very democratic principles that the people hold dear.
He described the impeachment as a dangerous descent into dictatorship and a threat to the foundation of democracy.
He added: “It is a sad reality that in our political landscape, ambition is met with stiff resistance, and those in power seek to silence the opposition through illegitimate means”.
Recounting his contribution to the state, he said, “I have dedicated my life to serving the good people of Edo State with integrity and honesty.
“I have worked tirelessly to improve the life of our citizens and uphold the values of democracy and justice.
“And yet, in return, I am faced with baseless allegations and blatant disregard for the due process and rule of law”, he said.
While condemning what he described as illegal impeachment and blatant abuse of power, Shaibu assures that he would fight for the sake of the people of Edo State and the future of democracy.
He said: “We refuse to stay inactive while our democratic institutions manipulate and exploit people for personal gain, we will fight injustice with every iota of strength in us for the sake of the people of Edo State and the future of democracy.
“I call upon all well-meaning citizens of Edo, and indeed all Nigerians, who believe in the principles of democracy and justice, to stand with us in this moment of crisis. We cannot allow tyranny and oppression to take roots in our society.
“We must resist the forces that seek to undermine our freedom and trample upon our rights. To the members of the New South Wales Assembly, who have chosen to forsake their vote of office and participate in this shiraz, I say this. History will judge harshly on your betrayal of the people who elected you to represent their interests.
“But know this, you do not have the power to silence the voice of justice and truth. I call upon the judiciary and all relevant authorities to intervene and uphold the principles of justice and fairness. Let the truth prevail over lies.
“Let the rule of law triumph over lawlessness. I am confident that the legal system will vindicate me and expose the sham that has been orchestrated against me. I want to reaffirm my commitment to the people of the Edo State, to the values that bind us together as a collective.
“I will not be defeated or intimidated by those who seek to subvert our democracy. I will continue to fight for the rights and freedom of all Nigerians. By extension, Nigerians that suffer oppression, I will stand firm in my resolve to see justice done. And to stand united in the face of tyranny and oppression.
“I urge all to remain calm and go about our lawful duties as good citizens and true democrats. Together we will overcome the dark chapter in our history and be emerge stronger and more resolute in our pursuit of freedom and justice”, Shaibu said.
