Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has openly criticized the previous administration for failing to swear in three judges who had been duly cleared by the National Judicial Council (NJC), describing the omission as a serious affront to the judiciary and a setback to justice in the state.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, alongside members of the Local Organising Committee for the upcoming NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, the governor expressed his administration’s resolve to correct past injustices and uphold the rule of law.
“We are here to make a visible difference,” Okpebholo stated. “The refusal to inaugurate judges who passed all qualifying requirements and received NJC clearance was a disservice to the legal system. Justice delayed is justice denied, and I could not allow such injustice to persist.”
Governor Okpebholo revealed that he had personally investigated the matter prior to assuming office and found no legitimate reason for the delay. On December 2, 2024—just 23 days into his tenure—he took decisive action by swearing in the judges, a move he described as necessary to restore public confidence in the judiciary.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial independence and pledged continued collaboration with the NBA to strengthen justice delivery across Edo State. As part of his support, the governor announced plans to provide operational vehicles to the association to facilitate statewide legal engagements.
NBA Benin Branch Chairman, Mr. Idemudia Iredia-Osifo, commended the governor for his bold reforms, particularly the swift inauguration of the previously sidelined judges. He also praised the restoration of the Customary Court of Appeal, which had been unjustifiably scrapped under the former administration.
“Your actions demonstrate courage and a deep respect for the rule of law,” Iredia-Osifo said. “You’ve shown leadership not just in legal reform but also in addressing security challenges that affect the entire state.”
He further announced that the NBA would host a Land Administration Seminar on November 5, aimed at exploring the governor’s powers under the Land Use Act, evaluating community land practices, and offering policy recommendations to the state government.
The visit concluded with mutual expressions of commitment to justice, fairness, and institutional development, setting the tone for a strengthened partnership between the Edo State Government and the legal community.
