Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sworn in three judges who his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, refused to swear in, despite the recommendation of the National Judicial Council, NJC.
The three judges were sworn into the Edo State High Court at the Government House in Benin City on Monday.
Okpebholo charged the judges to maintain high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold the rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice.
“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, marginalized nor hated for personal reasons, or on account of not having a godfather.
“As judges of the State High Court, we expect you to uphold high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice,” he said.
The three Judges sworn in are Ojo Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff and Edoghogho Eboigbe.
Responding on behalf of the judges, Justice Ojo Maureen Osa thanked the governor for the opportunity given them to serve as judges in Edo State.
Justice Osa also appreciated the governor for making their swearing-in a reality, just three weeks into office.
She prayed that the governor’s tenure will be marked with success and advancement of justice for all.
“We assure you that we will dispense justice without fear or favour,” she stated.