The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Monday swore in three judges who were previously overlooked by former Governor Godwin Obaseki in May 2024.
In his address during the ceremony in Benin City, Okpebholo explained that the swearing-in of the three judges was part of his commitment made during his inauguration.
He said that despite the National Judicial Council’s recommendation of eight candidates for the position, only five were appointed under the previous administration, leaving out three individuals who had been fully cleared by the NJC.
“Today, I have the privilege of righting this wrong,” Okpebholo stated, emphasizing that no one should be excluded or discriminated against for personal reasons or lack of political backing.
The new judges sworn in include Ojo Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe.
Justice Osa, who spoke on behalf of the others, expressed gratitude to the governor and pledged to serve impartially, ensuring justice is delivered without bias.
In addition to the judicial appointments, Okpebholo also announced the reinstatement of the lecturers from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who were dismissed by the former administration in March 2023.
These lecturers, members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), had been sacked by the Special Intervention Team (SIT) set up by Obaseki’s government, following their demand for unpaid salaries and other entitlements.
The governor, through a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, confirmed that the sacked lecturers would be reinstated immediately.
The statement affirmed the governor’s belief in justice, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law.
The ASUU Chairman at Ambrose Alli University, Cyril Onogbosele, welcomed the reinstatement, calling it a just and positive development.
He highlighted that the decision had been a long-standing demand, with promises made by the former governor in March 2023 that had not been fulfilled.
