Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo on Thursday revisited the previous administration, led by Gov Godwin Obaseki, for failing to inaugurate three judges cleared by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
Sen. Okpbeholo described it as a “slap on the face of the judiciary” and a grave injustice to Edo judicial system.
The governor stated this on Thursday when the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, visited him in Benin.
The NBA was accompanied by members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting to be hosted in Edo.
According to him, “We are in government to make a real difference, a visible difference that the Edo people can feel.
“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.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor had sworn in the judges on Dec. 2, 2024, barely 23 days after he assumed office.
Okpebholo disclosed that he had personally investigated the matter before assuming office and found no justification for the delay or denial of the judges being sworn 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 why they were denied. Justice delayed is justice denied, and I could not allow such an injustice to persist,” the governor said.
He 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.
He lauded the NBA for its role in advancing justice and governance, assuring them of his administration’s continued support.
He announced plans to provide operational vehicles for the association to aid statewide engagements.
The Chairman of NBA branch, Mr Idemudia Iredia-Osifo, commended the governor for his bold reforms, especially his swift action in swearing in the previously sidelined judges.
Iredia-Usifo laude the governor for restoring the Customary Court of Appeal, which was unjustifiably scrapped by the previous 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
“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 announced that the NBA would host a Land Administration Seminar on Nov. 5 to enumerate the governor’s powers under the Land Use Act, assess community land practices, and make policy recommendations to the state government.
“We look forward to a continued partnership with your administration in strengthening justice delivery and promoting fairness,” he added. (NAN,)