Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed that he will not repeat the costly errors of the previous administration. This is even as he described the failure of the last regime in the State to swear in three judges duly cleared by the National Judicial Council (NJC) as a “slap on the face of the judiciary” and a grave injustice to the State’s justice system.
Governor Okpebholo stated this when he received the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, and members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting to be hosted in Edo State.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthen the rule of law, deepen judicial independence, and build a robust partnership with the Bar for effective justice delivery.
“We are in government to make a real difference, a visible difference that Edo people can feel,” Okpebholo said.
“Our government will not repeat the errors of the past. The decision of the former administration to deny the three judges their rightful swearing-in, despite NJC clearance, was a great disservice to justice.”
Okpebholo disclosed that he had personally investigated the matter before assuming office and found no justification for the delay or denial of the judges’ swearing-in.
He said the decision to finally swear them in was taken to “rewrite the wrongs of the past and restore confidence in the judiciary.
“I discovered that these judges excelled in their qualifying examinations and had no blemish whatsoever. I saw no reason they were denied. Justice delayed is justice denied, and I could not allow such an injustice to persist,” the Governor added.
Governor Okpebholo praised the NBA for its role in advancing justice and governance, assuring the association of his administration’s continued support.
He announced plans to provide operational vehicles for the association to aid its statewide engagements.
“My administration will continue to support the NBA to perform its duties effectively. We are determined to build a justice system that works for every Edo citizen,” he said.
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Chairman of the NBA, Benin Branch, Barrister Idemudia Iredia Osifo, commended the Governor for his bold reforms, especially his swift action in swearing in the previously sidelined judges and restoring the Customary Court of Appeal, which was unjustifiably scrapped by the last administration.
“Your Excellency, your decision to swear in the three judges ignored by the former administration demonstrates courage and respect for the rule of law,” Osifo said.
“We also commend you for your focus on security. Insecurity is a global concern, and you have shown the will to make Edo safer for its people.”
He further announced that the NBA would host a Land Administration Seminar on November 5, 2025, to examine the Governor’s powers under the Land Use Act, assess community land practices, and make policy recommendations to the Government.
“We look forward to continued partnership with your administration in strengthening justice delivery and promoting fairness,” Osifo added.
