Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo inaugurated three judges for the state’s High Court yesterday at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin.

The appointees Ojo Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff, and Edoghogho Eboigbe were among those recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) 11 months ago. Governor Okpebholo noted that while five judges from the NJC list were previously sworn in, these three were excluded despite being cleared and recommended.

Addressing the ceremony, the governor emphasized the judiciary’s role in maintaining justice under the doctrine of separation of powers. He urged the judges to uphold high standards of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, protect citizens’ rights, and hold wrongdoers accountable.

“No one should be discriminated against, marginalized, or hated for personal reasons or for not having a godfather,” Okpebholo remarked.

Ojo Maureen Osa, speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated judges, expressed gratitude to the governor for ensuring their swearing-in just three weeks after his assumption of office. She prayed for a successful tenure for Governor Okpebholo.