Ex-Edo deputy gov begs court to suspend ruling

Former Edo Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo on Wednesday pleaded with the Federal High Court in Abuja to put on hold its ruling concerning a contempt charge filed against him. The aim, according to Omobayo's legal representative, Mr Ken Mozia, SAN, is to explore the possibility of an out-of-court settlement. The charge stems from Omobayo's alleged refusal to relinquish the deputy governorship position following a July 17, 2024 court order reinstating Philip Shaibu, who had been unlawfully impeached by the state's lawmakers.

Justice James Omotosho had scheduled the ruling for Wednesday, but Mozia requested a brief adjournment to discuss outstanding issues. The senior counsel for Shaibu, Mr Ken Mozia, said that while Omobayo was present in court, the alleged contemnor intended to address the court himself. Omotosho, however, noted that the court had given the parties approximately two months to reconcile.

Justice Omotosho, who typically does not suspend a ruling while it is being delivered, allowed Omobayo to seek a short adjournment, postponing the decision until September 25.