After a lengthy 11-month delay, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has finally sworn in five out of the eight judges recommended for appointment as Honourable High Court Judges by the National Judicial Council (NJC) in June 2023.

The newly sworn-in judges are Justice Obayuwana Osarenren Mathias, Justice Ehinon Anthony Okoh, Justice Ovenseri Otamere, Justice Bright Eraze Oniha, and Justice Osayande Ikwuemosi Awawu.

Reports indicate that the delay in swearing in all eight judges stemmed from petitions against some of the nominees. 

Chris Nehikhare, Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, noted that the petitions necessitated further investigations before the full panel could be appointed.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) had condemned Governor Obaseki’s delay in swearing in the judges, citing it as an abuse of power and a disregard for constitutional provisions. 

Specifically, the NBA’s Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) highlighted the constitutional obligation of the Governor to swear in appointed judicial officers promptly.

SPIDEL said the delay hindered the functioning of the justice delivery system and left the appointed judges needing means of sustenance. 

In response to the mounting pressure, Governor Obaseki eventually swore in five of the judges at the Festival Hall in Government House, Benin City. 

During the ceremony, he reminded them of the importance of impartiality in dispensing justice.