Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has criticised his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, over his refusal to swear in three judges recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) last year, describing the action as a “slap on the judiciary.”
Okpebholo stated this on Thursday while receiving the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, and members of the Local Organising Committee for the upcoming NBA National Executive Committee meeting at the Government House, Benin City.
According to Hobnob News, Obaseki had in May 2024 sworn in only five out of eight judges recommended by the NJC, despite their clearance for appointment since June 2023. The remaining three—Justice Ojo Osa, Justice Okundamiya Jeff, and Justice Edoghogho Eboigbe—were eventually sworn in by Okpebholo in December 2024 after he assumed office.
The governor described the move by his predecessor as an act of injustice against the judiciary and a setback for the state’s justice system.
“We are in government to make a real and visible difference. The decision of the former administration to deny the three judges their rightful swearing-in, despite NJC clearance, was a disservice to justice and a slap on the judiciary,” Okpebholo said.
He noted that upon investigating the matter, he found no justification for the delay, adding that his decision to complete the swearing-in was to “rewrite the wrongs of the past and restore confidence in the judiciary.”
“These judges excelled in their examinations and had no blemish whatsoever. Justice delayed is justice denied, and I could not allow such injustice to persist,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting judicial independence, and deepening collaboration with the NBA to strengthen justice delivery in Edo State.
The governor also announced plans to provide operational vehicles for the NBA to enhance its engagements across the state.
In his remarks, NBA Benin Branch Chairman, Barr. Idemudia Osifo, praised the governor’s swift action in addressing judicial matters, commending him for reinstating the Customary Court of Appeal and prioritising security across the state.
“Your Excellency, your decision to swear in the three judges ignored by the previous administration demonstrates courage and respect for the rule of law,” Osifo said.
He further revealed that the NBA would host a Land Administration Seminar on November 5, 2025, to examine land governance issues and make policy recommendations to the state government.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, and other top government officials.
