Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has sworn in three judges—Ojo
The latest development follows the earlier swearing-in of five judges in May this year. The ceremony, which took place at the Festival Hall in Government House, saw the Governor recall his promise made during his inauguration to address the issue and rectify the wrongs of the past.
Governor Okpebholo noted that although the National Judicial Council (NJC) had recommended eight judges, only five were sworn in by the former administration, leaving out three who had been cleared and recommended by the NJC.
He stressed that no one should be discriminated against, marginalised, or hated for personal reasons or due to not having a godfather.
He emphasised the importance of upholding high standards of conduct as judges, ensuring fair dispute resolution, upholding citizens’ rights, and bringing justice to culprits.
Governor Okpebholo further noted the judiciary’s critical role under the doctrine of Separation of Powers, reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the judiciary’s role in Edo State.
He said: “During my swearing-in ceremony as Governor of Edo State on the 12th November 2024, I acknowledged the critical role of the judiciary under the doctrine of Separation of Powers. Today we are gathered here to strengthen that role for 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 same 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 as beacons of hope.
For me, no one should be discriminated, 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.”
On behalf of the trio, Ojo Maureen Osa expressed gratitude to the governor for giving them the opportunity to serve as judges, just three weeks into his tenure.
She assured that they would dispense justice without fear or favour, and prayed for the success of the governor’s administration in advancing justice for all.
©CDA News
