Governor Okpebholo Swears In Judges Overlooked By Obaseki Administration
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has sworn in three High Court judges who were previously recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) but ignored by the former administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday in Benin City, fulfilling Okpebholo’s inaugural promise to address the issue.
During the event, Governor Okpebholo highlighted that his predecessor swore in only five of the eight judges recommended by the NJC in May 2023, offering no explanation for excluding the remaining three. “Eleven months after the NJC’s recommendation, only five judges were sworn in, leaving three qualified individuals sidelined,” he stated.
Okpebholo emphasised his commitment to fairness, saying, “No one should be discriminated against, marginalised, or hated for personal reasons or for lacking a godfather.” He reiterated the judiciary’s critical role under the doctrine of separation of powers and urged the new judges to maintain high ethical standards, uphold citizens’ rights, and ensure justice is served impartially.
The three judges sworn in are:
- Maureen Osa
- Okundamiya Godwin Jeff
- Edoghogho Eboigbe
In her remarks on behalf of the newly appointed judges, Maureen Osa thanked Governor Okpebholo for ensuring their swearing-in within just three weeks of his tenure. She pledged that they would uphold justice without fear or favour and prayed for the governor’s successful tenure.
“We assure you that we will dispense justice fairly, upholding the trust placed in us,” Osa said.
Okpebholo concluded by reiterating the importance of the judiciary in a functioning democracy, stating, “Today, we are gathered to strengthen the judiciary’s role in Edo State.” He affirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, signalling a fresh start for the state’s legal system.
