In the dynamic political landscape of Nigeria, the role of deputy governors has been both pivotal and precarious. Since the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999, the office of the deputy governor has seen its fair share of turbulence, with impeachment being a sword of Damocles that has dangled over many.
The recent impeachment of Philip Shaibu from Edo State marks a continuing trend in the nation’s democracy. Shaibu’s dismissal is the 17th instance of a deputy governor being impeached since 1999.
This event has sparked discussions about the need for constitutional reforms to protect deputy governors from what some see as arbitrary impeachment attempts.
The impeachment process, often seen as a political tool, has been wielded against deputy governors for various reasons, ranging from disagreements with their principals to allegations of misconduct. The case of Shaibu, who faced accusations of constitutional violations, underscores the fragility of the deputy governor’s position.
Political analysts argue that the frequent impeachments highlight the need for a constitutional review to provide deputy governors with more robust legal backing, ensuring the stability of their office and, by extension, the democratic process.
The list of impeached deputy governors includes notable names such as Femi Pedro from Lagos, Iyiola Omisore from Osun, and Chris Ekpenyong from Akwa Ibom, among others.
The impeachment saga often leads to a reshuffling of the political deck. In Edo State, for example, the swearing-in of Omobayo Marvellous Godwins as the new deputy governor has brought an end to months of confrontation and political tension.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic journey, the impeachment of deputy governors remains a contentious issue that calls for careful consideration and, perhaps, legislative intervention to ensure that the office is not unduly jeopardized by political machinations.
Below is a comprehensive list of all deputy governors impeached since 1999. This list not only serves as a historical record but also as a reflection of the evolving political culture in Nigeria:
1. Philip Shaibu (Edo State); served from November 2016 to April 8, 2024, under Governor Godwin Obaseki.
2. Femi Pedro (Lagos); served from May 2003 to May 29, 2007 under Bola Tinubu.
3. Iyiola Omisore (Osun); served from May 1999 to May 29, 2003 under Adebisi Akande.
4. Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele (Lagos); served from May 1999 to May 29, 2003 under Bola Tinubu.
5. Chris Ekpenyong (Akwa Ibom); served from 1999 to 2005 under Victor Attah.
6. Abiodun Aluko (Ekiti); served from 2003 to 2005 under Ayo Fayose.
7. Biodun Olujimi (Ekiti); served from November 2005 to October 16, 2006 under Ayo Fayose.
8. Garba Gadi (Bauchi); served from 2007 to August 13, 2009 under Isa Yuguda.
9. Peremobowei Elebi (Bayelsa); served from 2007 to June 24, 2010 under Timipre Sylva.
10. Sani Abubakar Danladi (Taraba); served from November 2014 to May 29, 2015 under Danbaba Suntai.
11. Jude Agbaso (Imo); served from 2011 to March 28, 2013 under Rochas Okorocha.
12. Sunday Onyebuchi (Enugu); served from 2011 to August 26, 2014 under Sullivan Chime.
13. Ali Olanusi (Ondo); served from February 2009 to April 27, 2015 under Olusegun Mimiko.
14. Eze Madumere (Imo); served from March 2013 to August 5, 2018 under Rochas Okorocha.
15. Simon Achuba (Kogi); served from 2016 to October 18, 2019 under Yahaya Bello.
16. Rauf Olaniyan (Oyo); served from May 2019 to July 18, 2022 under Seyi Makinde.
17. Mahdi Aliyu Gusau (Zamfara); served from May 2019 to February 23, 2022 under Bello Matawalle.
