Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has explained his decision to swear in three judges who were excluded by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, during a similar ceremony last year. Okpebholo emphasized that his actions were in line with a promise made during his campaign to correct what he saw as an injustice by the former administration.
In June 2023, the National Judicial Council (NJC) had cleared and recommended eight individuals for appointment to the Edo State High Court. However, Obaseki only swore in five of them, leaving out Justices Ojo Osa, Okundamiya Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe. Okpebholo, upon taking office, made it a priority to rectify this, stating that no one should be discriminated against or excluded based on personal biases or lack of political connections.
At the swearing-in ceremony held at the Government House’s Festival Hall, Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to strengthening the judiciary, a key pillar of governance. He noted that, despite being recommended by the NJC over 11 months ago, the three judges had been unjustly overlooked. Okpebholo affirmed that this was a corrective measure to uphold fairness, transparency, and inclusivity within the state’s judiciary.
The governor further called on the newly appointed judges to maintain high ethical standards, ensure justice for all citizens, and uphold the rule of law. He stressed the importance of judicial integrity, urging the judges to conduct their duties with impartiality and fairness.
In response, Justice Ojo, speaking on behalf of her colleagues, expressed gratitude to the governor for making their appointments a reality so soon after his inauguration. She thanked Okpebholo for fulfilling his campaign promise and providing them with the opportunity to serve on the Edo State High Court.
