Refusal to swear-in cleared judges: My govt won’t repeat past

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Governor Monday Okpebholo has described the failure of the last regime in the state to swear in three judges duly cleared by the National Judicial Council (NJC) as a slap on the face of the judiciary and a grave injustice to the Edo State’s justice system.

He stated this when he received the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin branch, and members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to be hosted in Edo State, assuring that he would not repeat the errors of the previous administration.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthen the rule of law, deepen judicial independence and build a robust partnership with the Bar for effective justice delivery.

“We are in government to make a real difference, a visible difference that Edo people can feel. Our government will not repeat the errors of the past. The decision of the former administration to deny the three judges their rightful swearing-in, despite NJC’s clearance, was a great disservice to justice.”

Okpebholo disclosed that he had personally investigated the matter before assuming office and found no justification for the delay or denial of the judges’ swearing-in.

He explained that the decision to finally swear them in was taken to “rewrite the wrongs of the past and restore confidence in the judiciary.

“I discovered that these judges excelled in their qualifying examinations and had no blemish whatsoever. I saw no reason they were denied. Justice delayed is justice denied, and I could not allow such an injustice to persist,” Okpebholo added.

He praised the NBA for its role in advancing justice and governance, assuring the association of his administration’s continued support and announced plans to provide operational vehicles for the association to aid its statewide engagements.

“My administration will continue to support the NBA to perform its duties effectively. We are determined to build a justice system that works for every Edo citizen,” he promised.

Chairman of the NBA, Benin branch, Idemudia Iredia Osifo, commended the Governor for his bold reforms, especially his swift action in swearing in the previously sidelined judges and restoring the Customary Court of Appeal, which was unjustifiably scrapped by the last administration.

“Your Excellency, your decision to swear in the three judges ignored by the former administration demonstrates courage and respect for the rule of law. We also commend you for your focus on security. Insecurity is a global concern, and you have shown the will to make Edo safer for its people,” Osifo added.

He further announced that the NBA would host a land administration seminar on November 5, to examine the Governor’s powers under the Land Use Act, assess community land practices and make policy recommendations to the government.

“We look forward to continued partnership with your administration in strengthening justice delivery and promoting fairness,” the NBA chairman solicited.

Present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa and other top government officials.