Reinstated Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has described the court of Appeal’s decision as a victory for democracy and the Judiciary.

The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, dismissed an appeal by the Edo State House of Assembly in the impeachment case against Comrade Philip Shaibu.

Shaibu, who expressed gratitude to God, the people of Eds State, and Nigerians, said the judgement is a victory for democracy and the judiciary.

He said, “I am grateful to God, the Edo people, and Nigerians for their prayers. Everywhere I go, people tell me they are praying for me.

“So, Nigerians’ prayers have been answered by dismissing the appeal filed by the state House of Assembly, and by the Grace of God, I will win all the cases against me.

“I am the one that is being oppressed and intimidated by anti-democratic forces. This judgement is a victory for democracy and the judiciary because the judiciary has become the hope of the oppressed, the common man.

“By the Grace of God, that arm of government will continue to flourish. The victory is for the Edo people. I am so excited.

“This is the main case because the Edo State House of Assembly purportedly impeached me. The appeal has been dismissed, and I am happy about it.”

Shaibu’s new party, the All Progressives Congress, Edo State, expressed joy over the judgement, noting that the victory is a testament to Governor Godwin Obaseki’s insensitivity and absolute disregard for due process and the constitution.

A press statement by the state publicity secretary of the party, Peter Uwadiae-igbinigie, read, “The APC, Edo State chapter heartily congratulate the Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu on his victory in respect of the baseless, unmeritorious appeal filed by the PDP led government and the toothless and ineffectual House of Assembly of Edo State over the resounding judgment of the Federal High Court.

“This victory is a testament to the insensitivity of Governor Godwin Obaseki to due process and absolute regard to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which he swore to uphold.

“The APC Edo state chapter is proud that today, the Deputy Governor of the state has found it worthy to trace his political fame back to the party which has helped to galvanise and reposition him as an icon of modern democracy which he has doggedly and gallantly fought for in Nigeria.

While you journey through the remaining part of your tenure as an APC Deputy Governor, the party offers its sincere support and encouragement to do that which you are well known for upholding the genuine tenant of democracy, which is sacrosanct in civilised climes.

“Once again, the evils of your previous party, the PDP, shall not affect your track record of profound political achievements which resonate within and outside Edo state,” he added.

Efforts to get a member of the House of Assembly to comment on the judgement failed, but a top government official said the state would look at the judgement and decide on the following action.