From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Rt. Hon. Dr. Samson R. Osagie has denied allegations of judicial interference in the ongoing governorship appeal and called on legal professionals to uphold ethical standards, particularly in the use of social media.
He made the remarks during an address at the June monthly meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, held at the Bar House, Benin City, on Monday, June 16, 2025.
Osagie stated that the event marked his first opportunity to formally address the Lion Bar since his call to the Nigerian Bar over 30 years ago. He strongly refuted claims by Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, who alleged via social media that Osagie and a Supreme Court Justice, Inyang Okoro, were seen leaving the Protea Hotel, Benin, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.
Describing the allegation as a “wicked, malicious, and unpatriotic vitriolic attack,” Osagie insisted there was “no meeting of any kind” with any judicial officer regarding the pending appeal.
Citing a clarifying statement from the Supreme Court, Osagie noted that the Justice in question had been granted permission to attend a private social engagement in Benin City involving a former president of the African Bar Association.
“Assuming but not conceding that I was in the said facility, how does that translate to meeting with the jurist?” he queried.
Describing the video evidence circulated by Odinkalu’s associates as inconclusive and defamatory, Osagie said, “There is nowhere my image was shown; such an attempt to undermine our joint image and professional standing is conduct unbecoming of a lawyer of that status.”
He urged legal practitioners to avoid weaponising social media to harm reputations, emphasising that criticism must be based on “verifiable and unimpeachable facts.”
Reflecting on his participation in the NBA meeting, Osagie said, “This opportunity is remarkable in many respects. I am doing so as the chief law officer of our dear state,” highlighting his legal journey since joining the NBA Benin Branch in 1996.
Praising the NBA Benin Branch for its role in leading legal reforms and professional development, Osagie noted, “The Lion Bar has remained a trailblazer in peaceful transitions and implementation of the association’s policies.”
Commenting on the state’s commitment to justice, the Attorney General assured that “this government under Sen. Monday Okpebholo is determined to uphold the rule of law but recognises that such rights must be exercised within the bounds of the law.”
He acknowledged that more could be done to support the legal profession but emphasised that the administration is focused on citizen welfare and lawful governance.