Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has sworn in three judges who were previously overlooked by the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Festival Hall in Government House, where the governor reaffirmed his commitment to justice and fairness.
Earlier this year, in May, five judges were appointed and sworn into office. However, three other judges, despite being recommended and cleared by the National Judicial Council (NJC), were excluded from the appointment process. Governor Okpebholo took this opportunity to right that wrong.
In his address, the governor recalled that in his inaugural speech, he had promised to address the issue, and today, he fulfilled that promise by swearing in the three judges.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of inclusivity and fairness in governance, stating, “No one should be discriminated against, marginalized, or excluded for personal reasons or due to the lack of a political godfather.” He reiterated that all those recommended by the NJC had been vetted and cleared for the position.
The governor further reminded the newly sworn-in judges of the critical role they play in the state’s judicial system. “As judges of the Edo State High Court, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, ensure impartial dispute resolution, protect citizens’ rights, and deliver justice without fear or favor,” he said.
He continued, “During my swearing-in ceremony on November 12, 2024, I acknowledged the vital role of the judiciary under the doctrine of the Separation of Powers. Today, we are strengthening that role.”
Governor Okpebholo also provided a brief background on the judicial appointments. In June 2023, the NJC had recommended eight individuals for judgeships in the Edo State High Court. However, despite their clearance, only five were sworn in by the previous administration. The remaining three, who had been equally recommended, were left out.
“Today, we are correcting that oversight,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “These three judges will now sit with their colleagues on the bench of the Edo State High Court, ready to carry out their duties with integrity and commitment.”
The three judges sworn in are Ojo Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe.
In response, Ojo Maureen Osa spoke on behalf of the trio, expressing their deep gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve. “We thank you for making our swearing-in a reality so early in your administration. We assure you that we will dispense justice impartially, without fear or favor,” she stated.
She also wished the governor a successful tenure, emphasizing their collective commitment to advancing justice for all.
