The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has spared former Edo State Deputy Governor, Godwin Marvellous Omobayo, a possible three month jail term after former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu accepted his apology in a contempt of court proceeding.
Justice James Omotosho made the disclosure on Friday, September 25, 2026, during proceedings arising from the contempt case filed against Omobayo by Shaibu.
The judge said he had been prepared to impose a three month custodial sentence without an option of a fine if the matter had not been resolved, stressing that such a sentence would have served as a warning to public officials against disobeying court orders.
The development followed efforts by both parties to resolve the dispute amicably, including an apology and undertakings made by Omobayo.
The contempt proceedings arose from Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/478/2024, instituted by Shaibu and others following the Federal High Court judgment delivered on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, which voided Shaibu’s impeachment and ordered his reinstatement as Edo State Deputy Governor.
Omobayo, who had been sworn in as Deputy Governor on Monday, April 8, 2024, following Shaibu’s impeachment, was subsequently accused of failing to comply with the court’s judgment reinstating Shaibu.
The contempt application was filed after the judgment, with Omobayo facing proceedings over his alleged refusal to vacate the office.
On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, the court had adjourned the matter to Friday, September 25, after counsel informed the court that the parties were making efforts to reach an out ofcourt resolution.
During the proceedings on Friday, counsel to Omobayo, Ken Mozia, SAN, informed the court that discussions had taken place between both legal teams and that substantial agreement had been reached.
In an affidavit before the court, Omobayo expressed regret over the conduct that led to the contempt proceedings and apologised to both the court and Shaibu.
He stated that he did not intend to disrespect the court or disregard its July 17, 2024 judgment.
Omobayo also undertook not to engage in any conduct that would amount to a violation, disobedience or contempt of the judgment.
As part of his undertaking, he agreed not to hold himself out, present or describe himself, or allow himself to be represented or described as the Deputy Governor of Edo State in official or private correspondence.
Following the apology and the parties’ efforts towards reconciliation, Shaibu accepted the apology, paving the way for the contempt matter to be resolved without Omobayo being committed to prison.
Justice Omotosho, while approving the resolution, reiterated the importance of obedience to court orders and cautioned public officials and institutions against treating judicial decisions as optional.
The development brings an end to the immediate contempt proceedings against the former deputy governor, subject to the terms and undertakings accepted by the court.
By Enitan Mudashiru | MUK TV News
