No Victory For Shaibu! Lawsuit Against Obaseki, Others Dismissed In Shocking Verdict

Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a ₦50 billion fundamental rights suit filed by former Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, against former Governor Godwin Obaseki and four others.

The case was struck out on Monday after Shaibu’s legal counsel informed the court that all parties had reached an amicable resolution, prompting the withdrawal of the suit.

Anita Oteh, representing Shaibu, told the court that the dispute had been settled, hence the decision to discontinue legal proceedings.

However, Aliyu Abdulkadir, counsel to the Attorney General of the Federation (the fourth defendant), expressed surprise at the claim, noting that his client was unaware of any settlement. Though he did not oppose the withdrawal, he urged the court to formally dismiss the matter.

Oteh opposed that request, asking the court to allow a simple withdrawal instead.

In delivering his ruling, Justice Lifu stated that since issues had already been joined between the parties, a dismissal was the proper course of action.

“Given that pleadings have been joined, the court hereby dismisses this suit in its entirety,” the judge ruled.

Shaibu originally filed the suit on July 19, 2024 (suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/914/2024), through his lawyer, Egwuaba Reuben. The defendants included Governor Godwin Obaseki, the Inspector-General of Police, the DSS Director, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Edo State Attorney General.

Shaibu had sought ₦50 billion in compensation for alleged violations of his fundamental rights.