Niger Delta
Edo Judiciary, Legal Practitioners Unite Against Insecurity
Edo State judiciary and legal practitioners have pledged their full support for the State Governor, Monday Okpebholo’s ongoing efforts to combat cultism and kidnapping.
This unified stance was displayed during a high-level meeting recently at the Government House in Benin.
Okpebholo, in his address during the meeting, stressed the importance of a collaborative approach between the executive and the judiciary, describing their relationship as “very cordial.”
He expressed appreciation for the judiciary’s responsiveness and quick legal advice, which has facilitated his administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity.
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to fighting cultism and kidnapping, emphasizing that these crimes pose a significant threat to the State’s economic development.
He called for continued cooperation from the judiciary in enforcing law and order, stating, “We must bring these crimes down to the barest minimum so we can feel safe again, our children can invest here, and their investments will be protected.”
This call to action follows recent legislative reforms, including the enactment of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025.
These laws establish strict penalties for cult-related activities and kidnapping, including mandatory jail terms and, in severe cases, the death penalty.
To enhance the judiciary’s capacity to deliver justice effectively, Okpebholo pledged his administration’s support for addressing key institutional needs, such as recruiting additional judicial staff.
This commitment was made in response to the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa’s briefing on the judiciary’s staffing challenges, which have been exacerbated by professionals seeking opportunities abroad.
Okungbowa had informed the Governor of the judiciary’s staffing challenges, noting that several professionals had left in search of better opportunities abroad.
Governor Okpebholo responded positively, acknowledging the urgent need to equip the judiciary with adequate human resources to ensure effective prosecution of cases related to insecurity.
The meeting, attended by a delegation of judges and judicial officers, symbolized a unified commitment from Edo’s legal community to maintain peace, justice, and security within the State.
The meeting ultimately reaffirmed a shared resolve between the executive and judicial arms of the government to rid Edo of criminal elements and ensure a safe environment for all.