Okpebholo Swears in Three High Court Judges, Corrects Obaseki’s Oversight
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has fulfilled one of his inaugural promises by approving the swearing-in of three High Court judges-designate – Ojo Maureen Osa, Godwin Jeff Okundamiya, and Edoghogho Eboigbe – who were cleared by the National Judicial Council for appointment in June 2023 but not sworn in by his predecessor, Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Shortly after taking office on November 12, 2024, Governor Okpebholo ordered the Chief Judge of the state, Daniel Okungbowa, to investigate the reasons behind the previous administration’s failure to swear in the three judges.
According to a statement from the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Umar Ikhilor, the three judges are set to be sworn in by Governor Okpebholo today, December 2, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at the State Executive Council Chambers in Government House, Benin City.
The Governor’s decision underscores his firm commitment to upholding the rule of law, respecting the separation of powers as outlined in the Constitution, and strengthening the judiciary to ensure justice and fairness for the people of Edo State. The former governor, Godwin Obaseki, had sworn in five of the eight judges in May 2024, leaving the three unappointed.
