Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday fulfilled a campaign promise by swearing in three judges previously excluded by the Godwin Obaseki administration during the swearing-in of five of their colleagues last year.
The event, held at the Festival Hall of the Government House, underscored Okpebholo’s commitment to addressing perceived injustices and strengthening the judiciary in Edo State.
The three judges, Justices Ojo Osa, Okundamiya Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe, were among eight individuals recommended for appointment to the Edo State High Court by the National Judicial Council in June 2023.
However, the previous administration swore in only five of the recommended judges, leaving the trio out despite their NJC clearance.
During the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo highlighted the importance of equality and fairness in governance, stating that no one should face discrimination, marginalisation, or exclusion due to personal reasons or lack of political backing.
He said, “During my swearing-in ceremony as Governor of Edo State on the 12th of November 2024, I acknowledged the critical role of the judiciary under the doctrine of separation of powers.
“Today, we are gathered here to strengthen the role of the judiciary. The National Judicial Council in June 2023 had recommended eight persons for appointment as judges of the Edo State High Court.
“Eleven months after that recommendation, only five of them were sworn in by the immediate-past administration, leaving out three, even when they had all been cleared and recommended by the NJC.
“In my inaugural speech, I made a promise to look into the case. Today, we have the privilege to right the wrong. The three judges will now have the opportunity to sit with their colleagues at the bench of the Edo State High Court to discharge their duties.
“For me, no one should be discriminated against, marginalised or hated for personal reasons, or on account of not having a godfather.
“As judges of the state high court, we expect you to uphold a high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold the rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice.”
Justice Ojo, speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in judges, expressed gratitude to the governor for making their appointment a reality. She noted the governor’s decisive action just three weeks into office as a testament to his dedication to justice and equity.
She said, “We thank you for the opportunity given to us to serve as judges in Edo State. We appreciate your effort in making this swearing-in a reality.”
Governor Okpebholo’s action has been widely seen as a step toward fostering inclusivity and strengthening the judiciary’s independence in Edo State.
