Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, swore in three judges previously sidelined by the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Festival Hall of the Government House, fulfilling a key campaign promise by the governor to address past injustices.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) had, in June 2023, recommended eight candidates for appointment as judges to the Edo State High Court. However, the former governor, Obaseki, swore in only five, leaving Justices Ojo Osa, Okundamiya Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe excluded without explanation.
During the event, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to correcting the perceived bias of the previous administration. He highlighted the importance of treating all individuals with fairness, free from discrimination or favoritism.
“No one should be discriminated against, marginalised, or hated for personal reasons, or on account of not having a godfather,” the governor emphasized.
In his speech, Okpebholo pointed to the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining balance under the separation of powers doctrine. He called on the newly sworn-in judges to uphold high ethical standards, ensure justice for all, and strengthen public trust in the judicial system.
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 other judges, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for giving them the opportunity to serve. She praised the governor’s swift action, noting the decision was made just three weeks into his tenure.
