Okpebholo: Why I swore in 3 judges rejected by Obaseki

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sworn in three High Court judges recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) but rejected by Godwin Obaseki’s administration.

Obaseki snubbed the three judges when he swore in five out of the eight recommended judges by NJC in May 2024.

The immediate past governor advanced no reason for his action.

The three judges are Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe.

Speaking in Benin, the Edo State capital, on Monday, December 2, Okpebholo, said the swearing-in of the judges was in fulfilment of the pledges made during his inaugural speech to look into the case and right the wrong of yesterday.

The governor said: “11 months after the recommendation of the NJC, only five of those recommended were sworn in as judges by the immediate-past administration, leaving out three, even when they had all been cleared and recommended by the same NJC.

“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, they are expected to uphold a high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice.

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“During my swearing-in ceremony as governor of Edo State on November 12, 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 recommended eight persons for appointment as Judges of the Edo State High Court.”

Responding on behalf of the trio, Osa applauded Okpebholo for the opportunity given to them to serve as judges in Edo State.

Osa thanked the governor for making their swearing-in a reality, just three weeks into office.

The new judge prayed for a successful tenure for the governor.

“We assure you that we will dispense justice without fear or favour,” she added.

The Star