EDO CHIEF JUDGE TAKES OATH IF OFFICE AS SCOUTS PRESIDENT
By Evans Abegbe,
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
Benin City.
The Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa has been invested as the President of the Edo State Scouts Council.
The event which took place at the New Ceremonial Hall within the state High Court premises was attended by Judges, staff of Judiciary and members of other voluntary agencies across the state.
The ceremony was also witnessed by National Scout Commissioners and Board Members.
The Investiture was conducted by the National Chief Commissioner of Scouts Hon. Dave Padopads Awunah.
In his inaugural speech, the chief judge and president of the Edo State scouts council, Honourable Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa explained that he was very happy to accept the singular honour and privilege to serve as the president of the state council of one of the world’s most renowned youth/children based organisation and promised to do all in his power to uphold the scout’s promise and tenets according to the oath he has taken.
Speaking earlier, the Chief Scout’s Commissioner, Hon. Dave Padopads Awunah thanked the Chief Judge for the honour done the association by his acceptance to lead the association in the state. He reminded the Chief Judge that the task of leading may not be easy but success comes with dedicated attention.
Also in attendance was the Chief Commissioner, external relations, Chief Agharese Idubor and other scout commissioners from across the country.
EDO CHIEF JUDGE CONDUCTS PRISON VISITS IN THE THREE SENATORIAL DISTRICTS IN THE STATE.
By Evans Abegbe
Media Officer,
Edo State High Court, Benin City.
As part of his duties as the Chief Judge of Edo State and Chairman, Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee, Honourable Justice Joe itsebaga Acha has visited the various correctional centers in the state.
The visit which started on 13th of this month and ended on 15th took the Chief Judge to correctional center in Oko, Benin correctional center, Ubiaja correctional center and Auchi correctional center all located in Edo South, Central and North SENATORIAL DISTRICTS respectively.
A total of 8 inmates regained their freedom during the visit.
A combination of lack of evidence and unavailability of case files for cases that had been pending for up to five years were basis for release of the inmates.
In his address, Justice Acha explained “that the visit, apart from being an avowed commitment and collective determination of Edo State Judiciary and stake holders in the criminal justice sector to decongest correctional centers in the state, it is also to ensure that no one stays there a day longer than necessary by promoting speedy determination of criminal trials”.
He also appreciated the governor of Edo State Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki for his cooperation and support in making the visit possible.
EDO CHIEF JUDGE VISITS FAMILY OF LATE DSP ADAMS MICHEAL
EDO CHIEF JUDGE VISITS FAMILY OF LATE DSP ADAMS MICHEAL.
BY Evans Abegbe,
Media officer, Edo State High Court, Benin City.
The Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justice Joe Itsebaga Acha has paid a condolence visit to the family of late DSP Adams Micheal who lost his life while men of the anti kidnapping squad of the Nigerian police carried out the rescue operation to free Magistrate Precious Agbonaga of Igueben Magistrate Court who was kidnapped on her way to Igueben from her abductors.
Delivering his condolence message, the Chief Judge eulogized the fallen officer, noting that he was a fearless and dogged officer who carried out his duty to his father land gallantly and faithfully, he however regretted that he paid the supreme price while doing what he knew how to do best.
Justice Acha maintained that it was a very unfortunate situation as his children was still very young and made prayers for God to grant the family the fortitude to bear such a great loss.
The Chief Judge promised to interface with the state government on ways to ensure that the family of late DSP ADAMS at this trying time and in the future.
In similar development the Honourable chief judge of Edo State, his lordship, Justice J. I. Acha also visited the Edo state commissioner of police to commiserate with him on the loss of one of his gallant officers during the rescue operation of a kidnapped Magistrate, Magistrate Precious Agbonaga.
The chief judge noted that it was very sad to lose such a gallant officer like DSP Adams Micheal who despite all odds went after dare devil kidnappers.
Edo state commissioner of police, CP Muhammad Dankwarra in his response thanked the chief Judge for the visit and explained that the death of DSP ADAMS was a rude shock from which he was yet to recover as the deceased was an officer he had come to respect because of his impeccable records and exemplary virtues.
He maintained that the police force will greatly miss him.
EDO CHIEF JUDGE COMMENDS EDSOGPADEC FOR DELIVERING ON INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS IN THE JUDICIARY.
Evans Abegbe
Media officer, EDO state judiciary,
Benin city.
EDO state chief judge, his lordship, honourable J I Acha has commended the EDO state oil and gas producing areas development commission on recent projects carried out in the state judiciary.
He made gave this commendation while playing host to the chairman and top management staff of the commission who paid him a courtesy call recently.
The chief judge explained that the projects will in no small measure make the onerous task of justice delivery easier and more accessible in the state.
He however noted that although the projects were built to specification, it would serve greater purpose if the judiciary is brought in at the planning stage rather than at the delivery stage as this would create an avenue for inputs that will lead better usage of the buildings and facilities.
The chairman of the state oil and gas producing areas development commission, pastor Kennedy Osifoh while delivering his speech thanked the honourable Chief Judge for granting the courtesy visit and said the purpose of the visit was to inform the him of the need to commission some of the completed and renovated court buildings in various parts of the state so that it can be put to judicious use and also to invite him to the ground breaking ceremony for other projects that are about to commence.
According to the chairman, projects already completed and ready for commissioning include
1: High court, Abudu
2; Magistrate court , Abudu
3; Judicial complex, Abudu
4; Ultra modern Magistrate court, Egba
5; Rebuilt high court building, Okada
6: Magistrate court buildings at Oduna, Urhonigbe and Uheuhe
All within the oil producing areas in the state.
Pastor Osifoh explained that the commissions’ duty of building infrastructure and human capital development in the oil producing areas and environs is of paramount importance and part of its job is provision of an enabling environment for easy dispensation of justice and dispute resolution which is in accordance with government policy of making EDO great again.
The EDSOGPADEC delegation includes barrister William Dudu (member representing Ikpoba Okha), Mrs Omosede Obamwonyi (member representing Ovia North East) and Mr. Charles Aideyan ( member representing Orhiomwon Local Government).
EDO STATE CHIEF JUDGE PLAYS HOST TO NEW COMMISSIONER OF POLICE.
The Chief Judge of Edo State, his lordship Justice J. I. Acha played host to the new Commissioner of Police CP Abutu Yaro who paid him a courtesy visit recently to intimate him of his resumption of office in the State.
The Commissioner of Police, while addressing the Honourable Chief Judge, explained that the job of policing would not be complete without the co-operation of the Judiciary.
He mentioned that there was a very high volatility of criminal tendencies which has been heightened by political activities in the state, this has constantly put the police on its toes in the state. This in turn has made the synergy between the police and the judiciary most necessary.
He condemned the prevalence of organized kidnappings in the state and promised to stamp out the menace in no distant time.
He however noted that Edo State was relatively peaceful in comparison to other states in the country.
Then his lordship, Justice J. I. Acha expressed his appreciation for the courtesy visit and welcome the Commissioner to his office.
While congratulating him on his posting to the state, the Chief Judge however noted that the job was not an enviable one bearing in mind the security concern in the state and country in general.
He mentioned that there was a great need for the Police and the Judiciary to work hand in hand in order to ensure effective justice delivery in the State.
He also noted that there has been a marked improvement in the security of lives and properties in the State since his resumption in a little over a month ago.
The Chief Judge urged CP Abutu yaro to ensure that all recommendations made by the administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee are implement SD this will go a long way to making justice delivery on the state easier.
He also promised to ensure that there is always a vacation Judge available as usual anytime the State Judges go on their vacation in order to avoid a pile up if cases and to ensure a smooth justice delivery system within the vacation period.
Evans Abegbe, Media Officer, Edo State High Court, Benin City.
EDO STATE CHIEF JUDGE SWEARS IN MAGISTRATES AND AREA CUSTOMARY COURT PRESIDENTS.
Magistrates and Presidents of Area Customary Court in the State has been enjoined to be of credible character and play their part in the equitable dispensation of justice without fear or favour.
This charge was made recently by the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justice Joe Itsebaga Acha while swearing in some magistrates and area customary court presidents in the state capital.
While congratulating the newly sworn in judicial officers, he urged them to be true to their oaths of office and good ambassadors of the judiciary. He maintained that their appointment was a call to duty and therefore not a stroll in the park as it involves a lot of hard work, dedication, tact and unwavering scrupulousness even in the face of temptation.
The Chief Judge explained that it was one of the cardinal points of his administration to entrench and build a strong and virile judiciary that is without blemish in the state.
He assured that the selection process of the Magistrates and Presidents was very stringent and thorough and therefore congratulated them for coming out successful.
He informed that there is deliberate and constructive steps being taken to bring on board laudable initiatives with a view to making Edo State Judiciary a point of reference in the country.
A total of 10 Customary Court Presidents and 5 Magistrates were sworn in for a better, faster and fair justice delivery system in Edo State.
By Evans Abegbe, Media Officer, Edo State High Court, Benin City.
FIDA EDO TO EXTEND SERVICES TO VULNERABLE PERSONS
The Acting Chief Judge of Edo State Judiciary, Hon. Justice Joe Acha. has enjoined members of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Edo State Chapter not to limit their services to women and children, but should, as mothers, extend it to all, especially the vulnerable men in the society as vulnerability had, in recent times, also been recorded among the male gender.
Hon. Justice Acha, who made this call while receiving members of the Association on a courtesy visit to his office, also remarked that he was quite familiar with FIDA and its activities as he has had the privilege of working with some of the members.
He further acknowledged FIDA’s recognition in aspiring to make him a patron while also assuring the association of his unflinching support at all times.
The Acting Chief Judge also urged FIDA to continue with the good work they had been well known for, while appreciating them for the visit and well wishes.
Earlier, the Chairperson, International Federation of Women Lawyers, Miss. Iryn Omorogiuwa, who thanked the Acting Chief Judge for the warm reception, disclosed that FIDA, had over the years enjoyed very cordial relationship with the Judiciary, especially as the immediate past two Chief Judges had been patrons of the Association.
Miss. Omorogiuwa stated that part of the reasons for the visit was to intimate the Acting Chief Judge of the Association’s wish and expectation of making him a patron of FIDA, as had been the tradition over the years.
She also said another reason was to acquaint the Chief Judge of the Association’s activities which were enumerated to include, but not limited to Pro Bono (free) services to vulnerable women and children on cases involving rape, abandonment and others in court.
According to the FIDA Chairperson, the Association has various committees to work out each activity as part of their mandate in preserving the rule of law and protecting vulnerable women and children.
The Association used the opportunity to solicit the Acting Chief Judge’s support towards the realization of their dream and project of putting up a FIDA building to provide shelter for vulnerable women with shelter challenges and centre for free training for very young children.
In her vote of thanks, the Vice Chairperson of the Association, Mrs. Ulo Uzamere, appreciated the Acting Chief Judge for his co-operation and support in times past as that had given them the confidence and assurance of his continued support.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
EDO STATE JUDICIARY TRAINS IT’S WORKFORCE …… HARPS ON ENHANCED PRODUCTIVITY
In line with the state government’s Vision of having well-trained and effective workforce, Edo state judiciary has made available to its members of staff modern training techniques and opportunities with notable resource persons well grounded in their diverse areas of expertise.
In his keynote address, the acting chief judge Edo state Hon. Justice Joe Acha expressed satisfaction at the fulfilment of the dream and commitment he had always held dear stating empathetically that training and retraining of all categories of staff of the judiciary was the very first request he made to his Excellency, the Governor of Edo State on the day he was sworn in as Acting Chief Judge. ” it is therefore, my fervent passion and desire to put in place a world-class Judiciary in Edo State with quality workforce that is second to none”, he said.
Noting that the strength and success of any organisation whether in the private or public sectors such as Edo State Judiciary, lies mainly in the quality of its human resources, Hon. Justice Acha stated “there is therefore a compelling need to regularly update and upgrade our knowledge base and that of other judicial officers through seminars, workshops as well as training programs like this aimed at efficient capacity building”.
Charging the participants on the need for their much-desired seriousness, the Acting Chief Judge admonished that the capacity building program which shall be extended to Edo Central and North Senatorial districts should renew the vigour and determination of the members of staff to drive an enhanced productivity.
Concluding, Hon. Justice Joe Acha extended his deep appreciation to his Excellency, the governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki and his formidable team for making the program a reality and a success.
Earlier while welcoming participants to the program, the Chief Registrar High Court, Benson Osawaru Esq. reiterated that the capacity building program is not a jamboree or one of leisure but a serious practical and academic exercise which is deserving of their rapt attention and participation as that is the only way to justify the enormous efforts and resources that had gone into making the program possible.
The chief registrar further urged the members of staff to make the most out of The Resource persons who had been painstakingly chosen as a result of their wealth of knowledge and uncommon practical experiences.
The training program themed “Towards efficient service delivery in the Edo State Judiciary” had erudite and well tested resource persons like Mr Sunday Iyun, Mr John Asuerimen, Elder Sunny Odigie amongst others doing Justice to the interesting, thought provoking and specialised topics chosen by management.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
HON. JUSTICE JOE ITSEBAGA ACHA SWORN-IN AS ACTING CHIEF JUDGE OF EDO STATE JUDICIARY
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has sworn in Hon. Justice Joe I. Acha as the acting Chief Judge of Edo State.
While reaffirming his support for rapid development of the state’s judiciary, Governor Obaseki stated that “the peaceful orderly and predictable transfer of power within the leadership of all arms of government is the single most important hallmark of a civilized working democracy”.
Governor Obaseki while congratulating his Lordship on his swearing in as Acting Chief Judge, urged him to always take to heart the solemn oath, which he has sworn to. The Governor also charged the Acting Chief Judge to carry out his duties with Justice, honesty and transparency as he had become the “custodian of an institution which represents the last vestige of hope in our common existence”.
In his remarks, the acting Chief Judge Hon. Justice Joe I. Acha maintained that he would continue to interact with other arms of Government as the Judiciary carries out her avowed duty of Justice delivery to the citizenry for the peace and progress of Edo State.
Hon. Justice Joe I. Acha further stated that as part of his vision and plans for the Judiciary, he would embark on training all the registrars and secretaries to enhance their productivity within the next few weeks.
Hon Justice Joe I. Acha’s swearing-in, which followed the retirement of Hon. Justice Esther Edigin as the 14th Chief Judge from inception, was held at the New Festival hall in Government House.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer,
Edo State Judiciary
TRIBUTE TO HON. JUSTICE MORRISON IGHODALO OF THE EDO STATE HIGH COURT AS HE GOES HOME TO HIS FINAL RESTING PLACE .
By: Douglas Ogbankwa Esq.
*Death never takes the wise man by surprise, he is always ready to go*
- Jean de La Fontaine
The Honourable Justice Morrison Ighodalo’s demise came to many as a surprise, but just as the saying above surmises, he must be sojourning in the bosom of the Lord as he lived his life with so much equanimity and solemnity.
Humble to a fault, the Hon. Justice Morrison Ighodalo never lost his temperament in Court. Measured in character, he chose his words carefully. The Hon Justice Morrison Ighodalo in his stint as a High Court Judge of Edo State was a quintessential example of how a judicial officer should relate with counsel and the Public.
As a minister in the temple of justice, the temple (the Court) was never desecrated. Being a Judge is a sacred duty. It is akin to acting on behalf of God on earth and so a judge must like Caesar’s Wife be above board and not condescend to the arena of conflict, else he would be blinded by the dust of conflict. Whenever a Judge is Sitting, he is actually on trial in the eyes of the Public, what he says or do, will be counted for good or for bad by posterity . The Hon Justice Morrison Ighodalo was a trail blazer in depicting the mien of a Judge.
On the characteristics of a judge the Special Committee of the Minnesota Bar Association on the Appointment of Judges stated thus:
*A candidate should exhibit the following aspects of proper judicial temperament: patience, open-mindedness, courtesy, tact, courage, punctuality, firmness, understanding, compassion, humility and common sense. Those qualities should be demonstrated consistently. For applicants who already hold a judgeship, these qualities should have consistently manifested themselves to all the court’s “stakeholders” interacting with the judge regardless of station in life, profession, type of case, representation by counsel or lack thereof*
In actual fact, the Hon. Justice Morrison Ighodalo displayed the virtues indicated above in My Lord’s life time. This accounted for the grief and mourning that pervaded the Bar upon My Lord’s Demise.
In his tribute to My Lord the Hon Justice Morrison Ighodalo, on a condolence visit to My Lord, the Honourable, the Chief Judge of Edo State, the Hon Justice Esther Amenaghawon Edigin FICMC, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Benin Branch, the Lion Bar, Pius Oiwoh AICMC stated thus:
*My Lord ,the Hon Justice Morrison Ighodalo was renowned as a quintessential Jurist, who had the demeanor worthy of commendation as he would address a young lawyer in the same manner he would address a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a unique characteristic that stood him out in his scandal free and eventful career*
It was Abraham Lincoln the 16th President of the United States that said:
*It is not the years in your life that matters, but the life in your years*
The Hon. Justice Morrison Ighodalo indeed lived a well fulfilled life, that is worthy of emulation. He will be sorely missed!
What will people say about you, when you die? Pause and ponder .
About the Author:
Douglas Ogbankwa Esq., is the immediate Past Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association Benin Branch and the Convener of the Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary.
Edo State Judiciary establishes “SETTLEMENT WEEK”
Edo State Judiciary has organized her first ever settlement week tagged “Settlement Week: An Effective Tool in Justice Delivery.”
Declaring the week-long event open, the Chief Judge, Edo State, Hon. Justice Esther Edigin, lauded the innovation of Settlement week which according to her is indeed an effective tool in Justice Delivery as it is a mechanism for achieving the Judiciary’s drive of bringing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to the door steps of all Citizens of Edo State. Reiterating that the Settlement Week is a tried and tested means by which a huge bulk of cases could be speedily resolved to clear up the backlog of cases in the court dockets, Hon. Justice Edigin maintained that the event marks the beginning of even greater things to come for Edo State Judiciary as the Settlement Week is not a one-off event, but a recurring one which would be organized from time to time during each legal year.
In his remarks, Chairman, Settlement Week Committee, Hon. Justice E. O. Ahamioje said ADR is now ubiquitously acknowledged alternative to litigation in several countries all over the world, and is gradually gaining a strong foot in Nigeria.
He further made known that the primary goal of a settlement week is to commit to a set period of time, usually a week or more, to apply the ADR process to ongoing litigation regardless of the stage of the case.
Hon. Justice Ahamioje also said this first ever settlement week is sponsored by the Edo State Judiciary. This means that, once placed on the track for settlement week, the entire process of a case is cost free, serving as an incentive to parties to achieve a resolution of their disputes.
Earlier, while welcoming all to the maiden edition of the Edo State Settlement Week, organized by the Edo State Judiciary through the Multi-Door Court House, the Director, Edo State Multi-Door Court House, Mrs. Taiye Omoruyi made known that the Multi-Door Court House creates an avenue to combat the challenges associated with the Justice delivery system minimizing delays through the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in order to achieve more amenable outcome to parties.
Hence, the week has been set aside by the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State for courts to clear the backlog of cases through referrals to the Multi-Door Court House for possible resolution through the ADR Processes.
According to the Multi-Door Court House Director, cases expected to come up at the settlement week includes: Land Matters, Matrimonial cases, Accident Claims, Banking, Energy, Contracts, Landlord & Tenancy. Others are Insurance, Employment and Labour related disputes, Recovery of debts, sports and so many others.
Mrs. Omoruyi further said that Settlement Week essentially helps to ensure that matters which remain in the court’s docket receives more attention. It also reduces the chance that people would take the law into their own hands out of frustration that may occur due to a prolonged litigation process.
Highlights of the event was the unveiling of the Settlement Week Practice Direction by the State’s Chief Judge.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
EDO STATE JUDICIARY SETTLEMENT WEEK 2021
This is to bring to the attention of Members of the Bar and Bench, Litigants, critical Stake holders in the Justice Sector and the General Public, that from 15th to 19th March, 2021, pursuant to Order 26 Rule 9 of the Edo State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2018, the Edo State Judiciary is organizing its first ever, “SETTLEMENT WEEK,” which is a week set aside to employ Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) options in the resolution of cases considered resolvable in Courts’ dockets.
1. OPENING CEREMONY
DATE: 15TH March, 2021
VENUE: Imaguero College Hall, Sapele road, Benin City
TIME: 10.00am prompt.
2. SETTLEMENT SESSIONS
Please Note that all subsequent Settlement Sessions throughout the week are scheduled to hold at various designated centres, being the New High Court Complex, Edo State Multi-door Court House and the NBA House, Benin City starting from 9.00am each day. All NCDC Covid- 19 protocols must be strictly observed, please.
SIGNED
BENSON OSAWARU ESQ.
Acting Chief Registrar
High Court of Justice, Benin City
EDO STATE JUDICIARY PARTNERS GIZ TO IMPROVE STATE INVESTMENT CLIMATE AND THE ECONOMY
The Edo State Judiciary is partnering with the Pro-Poor Growth and Promotion of Employment in Nigeria (SEDIN) Programme of the German Development Agency (GIZ). The objective of the programme is to improve the employment and income situation of MSMEs through access to finance and business services, strengthening entrepreneurial and managerial skills, and addressing key barriers in the business environment and investment climate of selected states in Nigeria. In line with this objective, SEDIN is partnering with Edo State Judiciary, being one of its focal states to improve the system for commercial dispute resolution and contract enforcement in the state.
One of the key indicators used by investors globally in assessing national and states economics across the world is the ease of enforcing contracts. This basically deals with how easy it is to enforce commercial or business contracts among entities in terms of number of processes, ease of the processes, cost, and predictability of the processes. As part of its contribution to the efforts of Edo State Government to improve the investment climate in Edo State and stimulate economic activities, the state judiciary has embarked on series of reforms including the establishment of Multi-Door Courthouse and small claim courts all of which has improved the contract enforcement system in Edo state especially for MSMEs.
To further strengthen the system, SEDIN is now supporting the Edo State Judiciary to train and certify panel of neutrals in mediation and conciliation. At the opening event for the training, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon Justice Esther Edigin stated that the Edo state judiciary believes this partnership will lead to effective and efficient commercial ADR which will fast track commercial dispute settlement which saves time and cost and an important reform for contract enforcement and improved business enabling environment in the state. The representative of SEDIN-GIZ, Akin Omoware Esq further explained that the beneficiaries of the SEDIN-GIZ Programme include the poor and vulnerable who do not have the wherewithal to enforce their contractual rights especially through the formal justice system that is technical, expensive and adversarial. As part of SEDIN’s inclusive business approach, this partnership will contribute to the efficient ADR system in the Edo state and give access to affordable system of commercial dispute resolutions for MSMEs including farmers who would not have been able to afford or access the regular court process to enforce their contractual rights.
EDO STATE JUDICIARY GETS EIGHT (8) NEW JUDGES
Edo State Judiciary has had eight (8) Judges sworn into the state’s High Court recently. The new Judges who are;
- Aziegbemhin Williams Idemudia
- Igho Patricia Braimoh
- Esohe Irene Bazuaye
- Etinosa Gloria Adekanmbi
- Hassana Garuba Oshione
- Theresa Irenonsen Eghe-Abe
- Ogbevoen Rachel Aiteseme
- Itsueli Mary Enoredia
Were tasked by the Governor of the State Mr. Godwin Obaseki to be impartial in their dispensation of Justice, while performing the swearing-in ceremony. The Governor promised his support in adopting the new technology in the dispensation of Justice in order to ease the burden of work on the Judges.
Governor Obaseki while promising to hand over the newly built quarters to the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esther Edigin, said his administration has plans of rebuilding courts and Judges quarters outside the State Capital this year as, according to him, the appropriate environment has to be provided for the Judges to work efficiently and smoothly.
The governor who was elated at the history making event, said, it was part of his administration’s avowed commitment to strengthen the Rule of Law by ensuring the Judiciary is one of the strongest arms of government as that would bring about a virile democracy. He further urged them to carry on their duties without fear or favour as their appointment is from God and not from any man.
In his response, on behalf of the newly sworn in Judges, Hon. Justice Williams Aziegbemhin, who until his appointment was the Chief Registrar, High Court, Edo State, thanked his Excellency, the Governor of the state and the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Esther Edigin for ensuring that the appointment process was transparent, fair and conclusive.
He also stated that the desires of the new Judges now is to abide by the Oath of Office, uphold the principles of Justice, the ethics of the profession and to dispense Justice to all without fear or favour.
Hon. Justice Aziegbemhin further used the opportunity to thank the Governor for the beautiful 12 new Court Halls/Complex at the High Court premises and also the employment of 100 trained Stenographers to ensure effective administration of Justice in Edo State.
Also present at the ceremony held in the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, with strict observance of COVID-19 protocol, was the first female Chief Judge of the State, Justice Constance Momoh.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
NEWSBREAKING: Nigerian States’ Legislature, Judiciary: FG releases details of Financial Autonomy Order
NEWSBREAKING: Nigerian States’ Legislature, Judiciary: FG releases details of Financial Autonomy Order
The federal government has released details of Executive Order No.10 of 2020, four days after it was signed into law by President Mohammadu Buhari.
The details signals the implementation of Financial Autonomy for the State Legislature and Judiciary Order of 2020.
With Buhari’s assent, the legislative and judicial arms of government in the 36 states of the federation will no longer have to wait on State governors for funds.
In the details released on Tuesday by Umar Gwandu, Special Assistant on Media to Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, President Buhari said his decision was based on Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).
Details of the Presidents orders as follows:
“1. Appropriation, Authorisation, Orders, etc:
(a) Without prejudice to any other applicable laws, legislations and conventions at the State tier of Government, which also provides for financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary, allocation of appropriated funds to the State Legislature and State Judiciary in the State appropriation laws in the annual budget of the State, shall be a charge upon the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, as a First Line Charge.
(b) The Accountant-General of the Federation shall by this Order and such any other Orders, Regulations or Guidelines as may be issued by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, authorise the deduction from source, in the course of Federation Accounts Allocation from the money allocated to any State of the Federation that fails to release allocation meant for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in line with the financial autonomy guaranteed by Section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).
“2. Determination of the Budget:
Notwithstanding the provisions of any existing law, convention or regulation, other than the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended), providing for appropriation or management of funds at the State tier of Government as follows:
(a) every State Government of the Federation shall set up a Committee from the commencement of this Executive Order comprising the Commissioner of Finance, Accountant-General of the State, representative of the State Budget Office, Chief Registrars of State High Court, Sharia Court of Appeal and Customary Court of Appeal, (where applicable), the Clerk to the State House of Assembly and the Secretary of the State Judicial Service Committee or Commission;
(b) where applicable, determine and ascertain from the Revenue profile of the State, a workable budget for each Arm of the State Government based on the request and needs of the Accounting Officers; and (c) the Committee shall be given and accorded legal recognition in the various relevant appropriation or Funds Management Laws of the States.
“3. Creation of State Judiciary Budget Committee:
(a) For the purpose of Appropriation to the State Judiciary, each State Judiciary of the federation shall set up a State Judiciary Budget Committee (in this Order referred to as “a Committee”) to serves as an administrative body to prepare, administer and implement the budget of the State Judiciary with such modifications as may be required to meet the needs of the State Judiciary.
(b) The Committee shall consist of the State Chief Judge as the Chairman with the Grand Kadi, Sharia Court of Appeal, the President, Customary Court of Appeal, where applicable and two members of the Judicial Service Committee or Judicial Service Commission to be appointed by the Chief Judge, in consultation with other Members of the Committee, to serve as Members.
(c) The Chief Registrar of the State High Court is to serve as Secretary.
(d) The modalities for budget preparations and implementation shall include but not limited to the following:
(i) upon the receipt of the Budget Estimates of the Fiscal Year for the State Judiciary, the State Judiciary Budget Committee shall invite all the Accounting Officers of the various Courts/Judicial Bodies to defend their budget estimates;
(ii) the budget estimates for Courts and Judicial bodies shall be based on expenditure line items given to them by the State Judiciary Budget Committee which shall be defended before the State House of Assembly; and
(iii) upon the appropriation of Funds, the State Judiciary Budget Committee shall on a monthly basis or as the case may be, request the Budget Office of the State to release the statutory allocation for the quarter or monthly and the Authority to Incur Expenditure (AIE) shall be raised by the Office of the Accountant-General of the State for the release of the Fund to all the Heads of Courts/Judicial Bodies in line with the Appropriation Law.
“4. Budget Preparation, Templates and Modalities:
(a) Without prejudice to any existing budget templates in force in any State of the federation, the State Legislature and State Judiciary shall continue to maintain the strata of line consultations, inter Arms and inter-Agency pre-budget consultations and frontloading as is done in some States.
(b) The budget templates and models in the schedule to this Executive Order shall apply to State Legislature and State Judiciary with modifications, in compliance with Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended) and such other applicable Laws.
“5. Appropriation and Supplementary Appropriation Law, etc:
(a) At the commencement of this Order for implementation of financial autonomy for State Legislature and State Judiciary in line with section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), all States of the Federation shall include the allocations of the two Arms of Government in their Appropriation Laws.
(b) Where Appropriation Law exists in any State of the federation before the commencement and implementation of this Order, such States shall amend their Appropriation Law to encompass financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary.
(c) This Order expects States without Appropriation Law on the financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary to do so.
“6. Special Allocation for the Judiciary:
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of this Executive Order, in the first three years of its implementation, there shall be special extraordinary capital allocations for the Judiciary to undertake capital development of State Judiciary Complexes, High Court Complexes, Sharia Court of Appeal, Customary Court of Appeal and Court Complexes of other Courts befitting the status of a Courts.
(b) In this section, “Other Courts” includes Magistrate Courts, District Courts, Customary Courts and Area Courts.
“7. Implementation of this Order:
(a) Subject to section 8(1) of this Order, implementation of the provisions of this Order shall be carried out by the Presidential Implementation Committee in accordance with its recommendations.
(b) To the extent as may be permitted by law, the Accountant-General of the Federation shall take appropriate steps to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Order and implementation of the recommendations of the Committee, as may from time to time be made.
(c) This Order shall be implemented consistently with States applicable laws that guarantee financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary and subject to the availability of funds.
“8. Citation: This ORDER may be cited as the Implementation of Financial Autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary Order, 2020.
“9. Commencement: This Executive Order shall take effect from this 20th Day of May 2020.”
Obaseki reconstitutes Edo Judicial Service Commission.
Obaseki reconstitutes Edo Judicial Service Commission.
HON. JUSTICE EDIGIN COMMENDS BENIN NBA ON PRO BONO COMMITTMENT
Edo State’s Chief Judge Hon. Justice Esther Edigin has commended the executive & members of the Benin branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) for their commitment to their profession and responsibility towards the people of their constituents.
The Chief Judge, who gave this commendation when the Executives of the NBA paid her a courtesy call in her office to felicitate with her on her assumption of office as the Chief Judge of the state, said the pro bono commitment initiated by the NBA has contributed to the decongestion of the correctional centres. She charged them to do all they can to uphold it while also encouraging them to live up to the tenants of the law Profession.
Hon. Justice Edigin further pledged to uphold the good relationship between the bench and the bar stating that her door is opened to all legal practitioners and she would assist all to the best of her capability.
Earlier, the chairman of the Benin bar, Prince Collins Ogiegbaen had congratulated the Chief Judge on her assumption of office, pledging the loyalty and support of the executive and members of the Benin Branch NBA. He emphasized on the many qualities of Hon. Justice Edigin stating categorically that she (the chief Judge) is one of the most resourceful Judges he had come across as he largely refers to her judgments in his dealings in court. He also prayed for a successful tenure for the Chief Judge.
Prince Ogiegbaen further intimated the Chief judge of the existence of legal Assistance and Prisoners Rights Initiative (LAPRI) which is headed by the bar Public Defender, the aim of which is to provide legal assistance and defend the rights of inmates, pro bono. He also explained that the LAPRI social advocacy was part of what awarded the Benin Bar, the 2nd best Bar nationwide.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer,
Edo State Judiciary
EDO STATE JUDICIARY BIDS RETIRED LEGAL GIANT ADIEU
Edo State Judiciary led by the Chief Judge Hon. Justice Esther Edigin has gathered to bid a deceased retired legal luminary, late hon. Justice Aliu Okunega farewell as he transits to glory.
At the valedictory court session held for the late Justice at High Court No. 1, Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, The State’s Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esther Edigin said that Hon. Justice Okunega has had his time to be born and now his time to die at the ripe age of 84. She also said his service to his profession, humanity, community and Almighty God is worth celebrating.
Hon. Justice Edigin extolled the late Justice Okunega as having an insatiable appetite to uphold the tenants of the Judiciary as the last hope of the common man in very many of his Judicial decisions as he was an epitome of diligence, forthrightness and integrity.
The chief Judge encouraged his family to be consoled with the realization of the fact that he lived a glorious and fulfilled life. As death is not an event that ends the great sentence of life but a comma that punctuates it for higher service and external life.
In his address, hon. Justice I. O. Aluyi, chairman Body of Retired Judges, Edo State, represented by Hon. Justice R. I. Amaize (Rtd) eulogised the late Honourable Justice as warmth, amiability and conviviality personified while he lived. He further said Justice Okunega brought such sterling qualities, amongst others to bear and radiated them even within the corpus of retired judges; stating that members will sorely miss him.
Permission was granted the Okunega family to remove with honour and dignity, the remains of the late gentleman and to lay him to rest in his hometown, Eware (Anwain Clan) Etsako West Local Govt. Area of Edo State.
It is worthy of note that Hon. Justice Aliu Okunega was chairman Transitional Committee, Etsako West Local Government Council, 2002 and chairman, Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), 2009. Post-retirement.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Senior Information Officer,
Edo State Judiciary
Edo State gets a new Chief Judge
Hon. Justice Esther Amenaghawon Edigin has been sworn in as the 7th Substantive Chief Judge in Edo State
The new Chief Judge was sworn in by the State Governor Mr. Godwin Obaseki following the retirement of the immediate past Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen.
While performing the swearing in ceremony, the governor commended judicial officers in the state for remaining unsoiled despite operating at a time when the judiciary is facing an integrity crisis.
He was thankful that Edo has not recorded any incident of suspension or dismissal of a judge by the National Judicial Council on account of corruption and implored all judicial officers to maintain the record
The Governor however tasked the new Chief Judge who he termed as haven faithfully served as a Judge in the state, to further ensure speedy dispensation of justice and to strengthen the state’s magistracy.
In her response, the new Chief Judge Hon. Justice Edigin, who promised to work with other judges in the state and other arms of government to ensure effective dispensation of justice, also said she will prioritise staff welfare, especially the magistracy and join the Governor in his fight against corruption in the state’s judiciary.
She further urged the executive arm of government on the implementation of financial independence for the judiciary in accordance with section 121 sub-section 3 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
Edo Monarch honours The Chief Judge
Om n’oba n’edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin has honoured the Chie f Judge of Edo State, Hon Just ice Esohe Ikpownmen with two different sets of royal beads as a sign of acknowledgement and honour.
The Oba of Benin who thanked his ancestors for fore sight and the wisdom bestowed on him, said the honour bestowed on the Chief Judge was not preplanned, rather, an inspiration from his forebears hence, after the first set, further beads were gifted to ·the Chief Judge.
The Bini Monarch while saying that thanksgiving is supreme, prayed for more wisdom and for G od to not abandon the Palace and the binis. Suing for harmony among all judicial workers, the Oba prayed for a peaceful tenure for the in-coming Chief Judge.
In appreciation, the Chief Judge Edo State, Hon. Justice Esohe lkponmwen said she had come to pay homage to his Royal Majesty for his fatherly love and blessings, she expressed her sense of gratitude stating that she is not sure of how she was deserving of such an honour.
The Chief Judge however prayed for God to continually honour the Oba and for more fruitfulness in Benin Kingdom.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
Edo South’s Judicial Officers Host Retiring Chief Judge
As parts of activities leading to the smooth disengagement of the retiring Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe lkponmwen, the judicial workers in Edo south has hosted the Chief Judge in a grand reception organized in her honour.
Responding to the cheerful members of staff, Hon Justice lkponmwen expressed her heartfelt joy and Gratitude to God for loving and blessing her so much as she never believed when she commenced her career that she would one day head the state’s Judiciary.
The Chief Judge expressed appreciation to all the members of staff for the love that exists and binds them. She however apologized to all she may have offended in the course of carrying out her duties.
Hon Justice lkponmwen used the opportunity to present her successor, the in coming Chief Judge, Hon Justice Esther Edigin, whom she described as very respectful, humble and loyal, charging all members of staff to accord the in coming Chief Judge with greater diligence and loyalty than they accorded her.
Earlier the number two Judge and in-coming Chief Judge, Hon Justice Esther Edigin had extolled the retiring Chief Judge as a very competent and diligent Judge whose motherly nature would be greatly missed. She described her as a role model to many and assured her that the legacies she had laid out would be improved upon.
Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of gifts by various members of staff to the retiring Chief Judge.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer
Edo State Judiciary
Edo Chief Judge Commissions Oredo Magistrate Court
Edo State Chief Judge Hon Justice Esohe lkponmwen has called on all judicial officers tasked with justice delivery to ensure that justice is indeed delivered speedily without fear or favour.
The Chief Judge who was speaking during the commissioning of a newly constructed Magistrate Court at Oredo Local Government Council, also said justice would make the citizens trust and obey the law.
Hon Justice lkponmwen while commending the chairman of the council for his patriotism and responsibility by his quick execution of the State Governor’s orders for Grass root Courts in every Local Government area to aid quick dispensation of justice, she however cautioned that the Magistrate court must not become a tool for the perpetration of injustice and oppression.
In his address, the Executive Chairman Oredo Loca l Government Council Hon. Jenkins Osunde expressed his convictions on the improvement of the Council’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) as well as the Councils ability to prosecute defaulters in the newly commissioned Magistrate Court.
Hon Osunde further intimated that the grass root government shall do everything possible to promote government policies aimed at establishing financial harmony between the state and local government. He however, solicited the support of the judiciary for the execution of the policies.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer,
Edo State Judicary
PROFILE OF MY LORD HON. JUSTICE ESTHER AMENAGHAWON EDIGIN
The Hon. Justice Esther Amenaghawon Edigin was born on the 17th day of
May, 1956 to the family of Mr. Emmanuel Egiebor Eribo who hails from
Idunogba in Ugoniyekorhionmwon in Orhionmwon Local Government Area
and settled in Ogbe quarters in Benin City. He finally settled in Egor Local
Government Area where he set up Eribo Industrial Estate at No. 100 Edo
Textile Mill Road, Benin City. He was married to Mrs. Omosede Eribo (nee
Odobo) whose ancestors came from Obadan in Uhunwonde Local
Government Area and migrated to set up a settlement camp now known as
Ekodobo near NIFOR in Ovia North East Local Government Area. His
Lordship is the 4th Child and the 3rd daughter of this union.
In the year 1961 His Lordship was enrolled into St. Mathias Primary School,
Okesuna, Lagos State and after two years moved to Adrao International
School, Victoria Island, Lagos State. From 1967 – 1968, His Lordship was in
Corona School, Victoria Island, Lagos where she obtained the Primary
School Leaving Certificate in 1968. His Lordship was admitted into the
prestigious Federal Government College, Warri for her Secondary School
Education between 1969 and 1973. She later proceeded to Idia College,
Benin City for Higher School from 1973-1975.
Having excelled in her education especially in Secondary School, she was
admitted to study Law at the University of Lagos in 1975. His Lordship was
called to the Nigerian Bar on the 17th day of July, 1979 after which she
proceeded for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps in Lagos State
and was posted to serve at the Public Complaints Commission at Norman
Williams Street, Ikoyi, Lagos State.
As a legal practitioner, His Lordship practiced with F. O. Akinrele & Co.
(SAN) in Lagos State. From 1980 to 1981 she also practiced briefly at Buba
Aliyu & Co. in Kano State before she was appointed Magistrate Grade I in
Kano State Judiciary and rose to Chief Magistrate Grade II in 1988, on
contract.
In September 1989, His Lordship joined the Bendel State Judiciary as Chief
Magistrate Grade II under the leadership of Hon. Justice J. A. P. Oki as Chief
Judge. She was later promoted to Chief Magistrate Grade I in 1993. In 1998,
His Lordship was nominated to serve the nation as a member of the
Election Petition Tribunal for National Assembly and State Legislative
House, Enugu State.
In 1999, His Lordship also served as a member of the Election petition
Tribunal for Governorship Election, Bayelsa State. Having displayed some
exceptional qualities his Lordship was appointed Deputy Chief Registrar
(Administration) in 1999 and after a very careful selection she was
appointed as the Chief Registrar of the High Court in the same year (1999).
It pleased God to add another feather to His Lordship’s cap when in 2001
she was appointed to the High Court Bench as a Judge where she served in
various Judicial Divisions in Edo State.
His Lordship is a strong advocate of effective justice delivery, through
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). She is a Fellow of the Institute of
Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC). She is also a Fellow of the
Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb). His Lordship has
travelled several parts of the world and taken part in both local and
international conferences.
His Lordship served two terms as a member of the Governing Council of
the Baptist School of Theology. She got married to Mr. Martin Sunday
Edigin in 1977 and they are blessed with Children and grandchildren.
The vision of his Lordship is to establish in its best practice, effective and
efficient justice delivery system in Edo State. His Lordship is passionate
about the promotion of Alternative Dispute Resolution and the welfare of
Magistrates who are seen as unsung heroes.
His Lordship is committed to working out and the enhancement of physical
and mental wellness.
EDO CHIEF JUDGE OPENS 2019/2020 LEGAL YEAR, HARPS ON INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY
The Hon. Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen, FCJEI has reiterated that the Judiciary must at all time remain immune to undue influence just as the Judiciary Officers must uphold the oath of office sworn to in the discharge of their duties as the Judiciary is the arbiter of all disputes in the democratic system of Govt.
Hon. Justice Ikponmwen who was speaking during the opening of the 2019/2020 Legal year lauded Edo State Government under the Leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki for the bold steps taken to ensure that Edo State Judiciary witnesses a rapid turnaround in terms of renovation of dilapidating structures. She however insisted that financial autonomy or independence is the way to go if the Judiciary is to thrive at a faster rate than it is now.
The Chief Judge further urged all Judicial officers to continue to do justice without fear or favour, affection or ill will.
In her address, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Edo State said she was deeply honoured to be part of the noble commonwealth tradition marking the beginning of a new legal year which dates back to the middle ages.
Prof. Omorogbe mentioned that it is a Pivotal ceremony in Nigeria, which sets the tone for the justice sector in the coming year, and provides an opportunity for the Chief Judge to speak on issues that are of pressing importance.
The Hon. Attorney-General in retrospect said that the 2018/2019 Legal year has been characterized by learning, repositioning and change. Further intimating that learning has been continuous through the various trainings that state counsels attended all through the year..
It is of note that the ceremony for the opening of the legal year which is a judicial ritual, marks the official commencement of the Legal Year and affords members of the Bar, Bench and Stakeholders in the Justice Delivery sector and friends of the Judiciary the opportunity to review the outgone legal year with a view to identifying the successes, challenges, areas that need either a total change or overhaul.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
INDUSTRIAL COURT PRESIDENT LAUDS OBASEKI ON INVESTMENT IN JUDICIARY
…AS COURT OPENS DIVISION IN BENIN
The President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Babatunde Adejumo, has lauded the commitment of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led Administration towards ensuring that the judicial arm of government is given the necessary support to function effectively.
Justice Adejumo gave the commendation in Benin City, during the commissioning of the Benin Division of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, constructed by the Edo State Government.
According to him, the establishment and commissioning of the Industrial Court in Edo State would promote industrial harmony in the State and provide succour for lawyers who used to travel to Akure to attend to cases from Edo State.
Justice Adejumo noted that the court would also encourage social development of the State through the promotion of peace and progress in the State, and in the Country at large.
“The facility is great and the building is good. This is the product of cooperation and I thank the Governor for this,” he said.
The Industrial Court President explained that the Court was established in 1976 and his coming on board 16 years ago led to its spread in Nigeria as Edo State is the 28th state where the court has been established.
In his response, Governor Obaseki said, “This is the first in the series where we will be handing over properties to the Judiciary as we have several of them undergoing construction in the State.”
The Governor thanked the President of the National Industrial Court for honouring the State with his presence at the commissioning ceremony, stating that his Administration had already provided accommodation for Hon. Justice Adeola Adewemimo, who would be the first resident Judge of the National Industrial Court in Benin City.
He said, “We are investing in our Judiciary as we have started the first in the series of accommodation for Judges in the State and we will not discriminate as we will ensure a comfortable accommodation for them. Our plan next year is to develop an estate for Judges in the GRA area of Edo State.
“This is just a temporary Court as the Court will be relocated to a permanent site within the next three years. We have secured the property and we have actually completed a design for the permanent structure.”
He further said, “As a government, we want to ensure we have the full complement of the Judiciary in the State and we are doing everything to provide what is required to make the Judiciary function effectively and efficiently in Edo State.
“We are going to be emphasising and strengthening our Magistracy, investing in our High Court and are pleased that we have successfully been able to attract the Industrial Court to Edo State as we work to relocate the Court of Appeal to a more auspicious premises and hope if possible to have a Supreme Court in Edo State.”
According to Governor Obaseki, the aspiration of his Administration is to be the industrial hub of Nigeria as the State is working hard to ensure that before the end of the year, the State Government will commence the construction of 1,000 hectares of Industrial Park in the State, and it will become the bastion for attracting companies and organisations to the State.
In her remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe, said the construction of the Court in Edo State had provided one instance of the positive attitude of Governor Obaseki towards all matters pertaining to the administration of justice and the rule of law in the State.
Also speaking, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Esohe lkponmwen, who expressed delight at the achievement, said it was a great development for the State.
She thanked the Governor for the achievement and expressed confidence that the Court will contribute to industrial harmony in the State.
The Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Edo State branch, Prince (Barr.) Collins Benson Ogiegbaen, expressed the gratitude of the Bar of Edo and Delta states to the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for realising the dreams of most lawyers in both states, who were exposed to kidnapping and hardship on the Akure Road, as it was one of the most dangerous roads in Nigeria, saying. “The entire Bar in Edo and Delta states are grateful to the exemplary leadership style of the Governor of Edo State.”
2019/2020 LEGAL YEAR OF THE EDO STATE JUDICIARY
The ceremonies marking the opening of the 2019/2020 Legal Year is scheduled to hold from Wednesday, 2nd October, 2019 to Friday, 4th October, 2019 with the following events;
Day 1 – 2nd October, 2019
7.00am-8.00am – Fitness walk from High Court to visit an Orphanage Home at Stadium Road, Benin City and ending at the High Court premises for refreshment.
3.30pm-5.30pm – Table Tennis & Lawn Tennis tournament at the Judges’ Lodge, G.R.A., Benin City
Day 2 – 3rd October, 2019
10.am-12.00 noon – Bar/Bench Forum
4.00pm -Dinner with retired Judges and other guests
Day 3 – 4th October, 2019
9.00am-10.00am – An Interdenominational Service to mark the formal opening of the 2019/2020 Legal Year at the High Court Complex, Sapele Road, Benin City.
10.00am-11.00am – Inspection of Guard of Honour by The Honourable, the Chief Judge of Edo State/photographs at the High Court Complex, Sapele Road, Benin City.
11.00-1.00pm -Special Court Session at High Court 1, Benin City
2.00pm– Entertainment of invited guests.
W.I. Aziegbemhin Esq.,
Chief Registrar.
EDO CHIEF .JUDGE COMMISSIONS CUSTOMARY COURTS IN IGUEBEN L.G.A
Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, has commissioned two Customary Courts as constituency projects of Rt. Hon Justin Okkonoboh at Ekpon and Igueben towns in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, at Igueben, Hon. Justice Ikponmwen stated that the essence of the court was not to unnecessarily persecute people but to enable peaceful co-existence of people as there would be anarchy and oppression without Courts.
She maintained that the Judiciary remained a very important Arm of Government because it delivers justice to the people and it is expected that there should be meaningful and good Court House everywhere in the State.
The Chief Judge commended Rt. Hon. Okonoboh for choosing the judiciary as his focus for his constituency projects, saying it was a proof of his understanding of his role as a legislature adding that laws made must have proper room for interpretation.
Presenting the Court houses for commissioning, the former Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly and Initiator of the projects, Rt. Hon. Okonoboh, said he was only delivering on his electioneering promises as expected of him by his people who elected him to represent them in the State House of Assembly.
He further said that he was motivated to opt for the construction of Customary Courts as his constituency project when he became aware that there was an approval for Ekpon and Igueben to own Customary Courts.
In his goodwill message the Chairman of lgueben Local Government Area, Dr. Josie Ogedegbe, opined that there should be no fear about having Courts anywhere as it remained part of developmental strides, explaining that there must be an avenue for dress for whoever would feel oppressed.
The Council Chairman however promised to furnish the constructed Court houses in record time for prompt use.
Nwine, Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
EDO CHIEF JUDGE COMMENDS EDO EXECUTIVE FOR ASSERTIVE OUTLOOK ON DEMOCRACY
EDO CHIEF JUDGE COMMENDS EDO EXECUTIVE FOR ASSERTIVE OUTLOOK ON DEMOCRACY
Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, has commended the Executive Arm of Edo State Government, saying that the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has an assertive outlook on democracy.
Hon, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, who gave this commendation while speaking as chairman on the occasion of the 2019 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Benin City, thanked Mr. Obaseki for his developmental strides and people-oriented policies which formed the evidence of the growth of democracy in the State.
The Chief Judge, however, pleaded with all well-meaning individuals and practitioners of law not to tear down the constitution, but to allow the Judiciary to strive independently in all its dealings.
She further stressed that there were lots of judicial pronouncements on democracy and the law, stating that the law has a big role to play in advancing the democratic outlook in Nigeria.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch, Prince Collins Ogiegbaen, said the theme of the 2019 Law Week which was “Advancing the Nigerian Democratic Outlook: the Role of Law,” was thoughtfully selected as it touched on the delicate act of balancing on an ordinary scale while it was also set to expose the deadly and negative use of power under a democratic outlook.
Delivering the keynote address on “Advancing the Nigerian Democratic Outlook: The Role of Law,” Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa Esq. posited that unless the rights and freedom of citizens were guaranteed, the ruler would most probably run amock and clamp down on all forms of opposition to his programmes and policies, thus compromising or jeopardizing democracy, explaining that there would be no democracy without law.
Nwine, Nepen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
EDO STATE CHIEF JUDGE BAGS LIFE TIME ACHIEVERS AWARD
EDO STATE CHIEF JUDGE BAGS LIFE TIME ACHIEVERS AWARD
The Chief Judge, Edo State High Court, Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen, has been conferred with a Life Time Achievers Award by the Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch.
Receiving the award which was conferred on her during the 2019 Nigerian Bar Association’s Law Week, Chief Judge Esohe Ikponmwen said she was grateful for the honour bestowed on her,and charged members of the Association to uphold the rule of law and the honour that comes from defending the cause of justice, praying God to take the judiciary to greater heights.
Acknowledging the Chief Judge during the Conferment of the Award, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch, Prince Collins Ogiegbaen, said the Award was in recognition of Justice Ikponmwen’s immense contribution to the uplift and betterment of the Edo State Judiciary.
According to Prince Collins Ogiegbaen, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, who is known to be fair and strict in the dispensation of justice, has brought uniqueness to the State Judiciary, explaining that the Jurist’s tenure as Chief Judge has been harmonious, impactful and staff welfare-oriented.
He urged the Chief Judge to continue with her developmental strides as God would continue to strengthen her to do more.
Other recipients of the NBA, Benin, Life Time Award, are Hon. Justice Isaac Aluyi (Rtd), Hon. J. O. Olubor (Rtd) and Prof. Osayuki Godwin Oshodin (JP), while the NBA Benin Merit Award was conferred on Hon. Justice Esther Edigin and Hon. Justice Itsebaga Acha, Judges of Edo State High Court.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary.
Hon. Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe Retires
A Valedictory Court Session has being held in honour of the Hon. Mrs. Justice Ada Nnoyelum Ehigiamusoe on occasion of her retirement from public service as a high court Judge in Edo State Judiciary.
In her speech, the Hon. Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen, stated that it is with immense Joy she is presiding over the valedictory court session in honour of Hon. Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe, stating that the retiring Judge has been an inspiration to many people, describing her as warm, loving to all and undeniably humble.
The Hon. Chief Judge also stated that Hon. Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe contributions over the years to the progressive development of Edo state Judiciary could not be over emphasized as she has spent the better part of her life working in the Edo state Judiciary.
She thanked the retiring Judge for her unflinching support over the years and prayed that her post retirement life wiould be filled with greater memories and testimonies to the glory of God.
Congratulating Hon. Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe, the state Attorney General and commissioner for Justice, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe who was represented by wole Iyamu SAN, the solicitor General, Edo state Ministry of Justice remarked that the Occasion is the logical culmination of a distinguished and Satisfying Judicial career Devoted to Justice dispensation. described Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe as one such Jurist who was gentle, yet firm and marked himself distinctly.
According to him, Hon. Justice A. N. Ehigiamusoe career is an inspiration and her example is eternal as her carriage in the discharge of justice was faultless.
In her response, the retiring Justice Ada Ehigiamusoe thanked God for the opportunity of the valedictory service.
She appreciated the people of Edo state who gave her an identity,
haven come into the states Judiciary on appointment as Magistrate II, rose steadily and smoothly through the ranks to become the second in command in the hierarchy of Judges in Edo state Judiciary and being privileged to have served in the three Senatorial Districts in the State.
Justice Ehigiamusoe further thanked the state’s Chief Judge for the good working relationship that existed between them and also her family for the solid support they had accorded her.
Among the dignitaries at the session were the executive Governor of Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by the Secretary of the state Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq; the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shuaibu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele, Judges across the state as well as visiting and retired Judges.
Nwine, Nekpan Maureen.
Information Officer.
Edo State Judiciary.
THE HONOURABLE THE CHIEF JUDGE SWEARS-IN TWO NOTARY PUBLIC
The Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, has sworn in two barristers as Notaries Public for Nigeria.
Performing the ceremony in Benin City, Hon. Justice Ikponmwen congratulated the two gentlemen on their well-deserved appointment, reiterating that they had been found fit both in character and in learning, hence their recommendation to the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Hon. Dr. Justice I. T. Muhammed, for their appointment.
The Hon. Chief Judge, who urged them to see their appointment as a call to render selfless service to Edo State and Nigeria, maintained that the Notaries Public Act Cap 141 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, Section 2(1) provides that, “The Chief Justice of Nigeria may appoint any fit and proper person being a legal practitioner to be a Notary Public for Nigeria. A notary appointed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria shall perform the same duties and exercise, the same functions as a Notary in England.”
She further stated that having subscribed to the relevant Oath before her as required by Section 3 of the Notaries Public Act, both Notaries, Kingsley Osabuohien Agie, Esq., and Emmanuel Tairu Ojeikhoa, Esq., were now empowered to discharge the duties of Notaries as prescribed by Section 18 of the Notaries Public Act.
In his response, Kingsley Agie, Esq., appreciated the efforts of the Hon. Chief Judge of the Edo State Judiciary, pledging that they would not do anything to negate the oath they had taken.
He also pledged to do everything within his power not to disappoint the Hon. Chief Judge and the Bar.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
EDO JUDICIARY PREPARES STAFF FOR RETIREMENT
In a bid to prepare its members of staff for a good life after retirement, Edo State Judiciary has organized a one-day seminar for its retiring members of staff.
Declaring the seminar open in Benin City, the Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, said it was a unique opportunity for members of staff to have options of what to plan for, while preparing for retirement, explaining that one must be prepared for everything to be done in life.
The Chief Judge tasked the participants to make good use of the opportunity to make adequate preparation, psychologically and otherwise in order to glide seamlessly into retirement, saying it was possible for one to live a better life even after retirement.
She further thanked the resource persons for being available for the seminar, while expressing her confidence in their ability to equip the participants with the much desired tips ad information required to make good preparation for their retirement.
The resources persons at the seminar included Mr. Ehimare Freedom, Director of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture; Mr. Peter Aikhuomobhogbe of Edo ADP; Mr. Godfrey Asiriuwa, Programme Manager, Edo ADP and Prof. J. O. Osamwonyi of the Department of Finance, University of Benin.
Some of the lectures delivered at the seminar were “Fish Farming”, “Sustainable Ventures in Agricultural Development (Plantain Production, Piggery and Fertilizer Application)”, “Snailery and Cane Rabbit” as well as “Importance of Saving”.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
EDO CHIEF JUDGE INSTALLED AS PATRONESS OF BOYS BRIGADE NIGERIA
The Hon. Chief Judge of Edo State Judiciary, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, has been installed as the Patroness, Boys Brigade, Nigeria.
Speaking at the Decoration ceremony which took place at the High Court in Benin City, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen said she was grateful to God and to everyone for the hour bestowed on her, explaining that she was elated to learn of the vision of Boys Brigade, Nigeria, and as it is founded on the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, she would whole heartedly embrace it since it was another opportunity for her to serve and spread the Gospel.
The Hon. Chief Judge further thanked those who had been strengthening the organization, while promising to uphold the tenets of the association in appreciation of her call in this area of service.
Earlier, while decorating the Chief Judge, the State President, Boys Brigade, Nigeria. Edo State Council, Mr. Lawson Akhideno, said investing Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen as a State Patroness of the Organization was a dream come true for them, as they were assured that the vision and mission of Boys Brigade, Nigeria would be accomplished in Edo State.
The State President likened the investiture ceremony to the story of the sick man in the Bible, who had no man to help him, emphasizing his strong belief that God would use Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen to uplift Boys Brigade in Edo State.
Mr. Akideno further congratulated the Hon. Chief Judge on the investiture and formerly welcomed her to Boys Brigade, Nigeria, whose objective is the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom among Boys and promotion of habits of obedience, reverence, discipline, self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian manliness.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Information officer, Edo State Judiciary
74 INMATES FREED AS COMMITTEE ON PRISON DECONGESTION VISITS BENIN
No fewer than 74 inmates were recently freed from the Benin and Oko prisons as the presidential Committee on Prisons Reform and Decongestion visited Benin City, Edo State.
The inmates, who had been sentenced over crimes ranging from breach of peace, malicious damage, unlawful assault, fraud, conspiracy, breaking and stealing, were excited at the prospect of reuniting with their families.
Releasing them, the Head of the Presidential Committee on prisons Reform and Decongestion, and Chief Judge of FCT, Abuja, Chief Justice Ishaqu Bello, admonished the freed inmates to desist from acts that could get them back to prisons in future, maintaining that crimes do not pay.
The inmates who had learnt some trades while in custody were given some amount of money toenable them to set up their businesses and have means of livelihood, so as to shun crimes.
On her part, the Hon. Chief Judge, Edo State Judiciary, Hon. Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, charged the freed inmates to eschew life of crimes in the future as their loved ones suffered the most from their conviction.
Earlier, while on a courtesy call on the Governor of the State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, Hon. Justice Bello informed the Governor that Edo State was the 14th State the Committee had visited while fulfilling their mandate of reforming and decongesting Prisons across the nation.
Present at the decongestion exercise were the Chief Judge of Edo State Judiciary, Honourable Justice Esohe Ikponmwen, the Attorney General of Edo State, Professor Yinka Omorogbe, Deputy Comptroller of Prisons, Edo State Command, Joseph Usendiah.
Nwine Nekpen Maureen
Information Officer, Edo State Judiciary
Appointment of Chief Registrar for the High Court
Following the retirement of H. I. Enemaku, Esq. on the 14th January, 2019, the Judicial Service Commission at its meeting held on Tuesday, the 22nd of January, 2019 approved the appointment of W. I. Aziegbemhin, Esq. as the substantive Chief Registrar of the High Court of Edo State with effect from 15th January, 2019. Until his appointment, W. I. Aziegbemhin, Esq. was a Chief Magistrate (Speceial Grade) and Deputy Chief Registrar (Special Duties and Protocol).
NOTICE
Please note that the PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, NATION-WIDE TRAINING EXERCISE which was slated to hold in Edo State on 5th of November, 2018 has been postponed indefinitely as a result of the proposed NLC Nationwide strike action. A new date will be communicated soonest.
H. I. Enemaku
Chief Registrar.
PUBLIC LECTURE
This is to the inform the general public of the 1st Public Lecture of the Faculty of Law, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City .
Topic: THE ART AND ESSENTIALS OF JUDGEMENT WRITING: A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE JUDGEMENT OF PONTIUS PILATE to be delivered by His Lordship the Hon. the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen, FCJEI
CHARILOVE IS PUSHING FOR BEST PRACTICES – CHRISTOPHER OMUSI
THE founder and coordinator of charilove centre, Christopher Omusi has said that any individual or government that encourage vote buying and election malpractice does not mean well for the people of this country.
Speaking during the visit of the Edo State chief Judge, Hon Justice Frances lkponmwen who led members of the state Judiciary on their charity walk to charilove centre in Benin City Mr. Omusi said such action result in dare consequences for Nigeria and organs such as charilove in particular and humanity at large.
“I wish to state categorically that any individual or government that encourages and promotes vote buying and election malpractices does not mean well for the people of this country.” Such individual or government is utterly satanic and can only end up creating a society that is utterly deformed and disabled.
I pray that the Judiciary will in the name of God do its best to ensure that people do not drag Nigeria to that awful state; he noted.
He said that for the Edo State Judiciary to find charilove as a place to channel its maiden and historic charity walk is certainly divinely inspired.
“We thank God for using the Edo State Judiciary today to lift up our drooping spirit and to keep our charilove hope alive.”
“Your coming here physically means a whole lot more to charilove than any award from anywhere in the world.
Thank you for coming to help wipe some of our over flowing tears, not essentially for ourselves but for our country Nigeria, he added.
He disclosed that charilove is a needs focused, action oriented and down to earth pragmatic voluntary service organisation.
In his words, charilove is an encapsulation of every idea and approaches that Nigeria needs to copy to be able to make headway and become a truly great nation.
“Charilove believes in action rooted advocacy (do-the talk-by-action) and not in mere rhetoric’s or propaganda.”
Charilove has continued and will, by the grace of God, continue to maintain just one position: If god is to choose to spare our country, Nigeria because of one, two or three upright individuals or groups, we want charilove to be a ready name to be presented by His angels. Staying true to this position is our passion and thus is the spirit that has helped to mold our character, our chosen vocation and our activities, he noted.
He further declared that because of the uncompromising position of charilove in pushing for best practices, the pace setter humanitarian service organisation and those running it have been made to suffer every manner of persecution, isolation, frustration and “rape” consequently, charilove has become stunted and sadly made so by people and by the Nigeria most difficult environment.
“Charilove observations and direct experiences are bringing us to ask one poignant question, “Has It become a crime and tragedy for someone in Nigeria to advocate for and uncompromisingly insist on best practices,” he added.
The Chief Judge of Edo State Justice Frances lkponmwen disclosed that when she thought of the usual charity walk to open the legal year, the lord put it in her heart that we should not just be seen as punishing those who offend in the, society but the judiciary as a whole must also be seen as serving the community and I thought we should pay a visit to project charilove and give a token of what we have.
“We have all come and we have seen, when we are in our little corner we grumble a lot about how hard things are.” But if we move out to see what people are going through, especially children who from no fault of theirs are born with certain disabilities, you will want to stop and think about them, you will want to give to ensure they have a better life, many of them from what I have read, when some people have children with disabilities they lock them in their homes or throw them away from them so that people will not laugh at them.
The mentality of our society is such that when anything happens to anybody, the thinking is that it is because of the evil the person has done.
“As an enlightened arm of the government we should begin to partner with other arms of the society that this children who are born with disability is no fault of theirs and we need to support them.”
CREDT: The Nigerian Observer
www.nigerianobservernews.com
JUDICIARY AND DISPENSATION OF JUSTICE BY EUBALDUS ENAHORO
THERE are so much politicking going on in the country and the rhetoric and propaganda have been heating up the polity with the general elections barely four months away.
The politicians are busy struggling for power even when it is obvious that most of them do not merit a second chance in the corridors of power.
In Nigeria today, hype on economic and political Issues has kept the populace busy to the extent they forget about the less privileged. For instance there has been public outcry over vote buying which has become prevalent in our elections.
Thus trend is however not new because in the 2015 general election we saw how in the full glare of the security apparatus, some youths at Ogbe quarters in Benin City made frantic efforts to ensure that voters only cast their votes for their candidates.
A Journalist earned some few slaps from the hoodlums for daring these indian hemp smoking youths when he tried to insist on voting for his own candidate. The problem began when they requested to see who he had voted for before dropping the voter’s card inside the ballot box.
While some persons were made to swallow the bitter pill of accepting the N2,000 cash offered and vote their candidate, those who refused to dance to their tune were disenfranchised because they refused to compromise or sell their votes and conscience. It is then obvious that the vote buying syndrome did not just start With the Osun and Ekiti state governorship election.
We have heard many views on how to curb vote buying and the implications for our democratic journey. However, it is clear that the desperation for power has made some politicians believe that with their ill gotten money they can buy the peoples votes on election day and the highest bidder will take the day. We saw It happen at the party primaries across the states.
In any case, If Nigerians are truly sincere with themselves, especially the umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the solution to this vote buying is for them to ensure that the voting pattern is made secret.
Away from politics, there are issues of immense importance, which should take our time and attention and that is reaching out to the less privileged In our midst.
It is sad that some people can afford to spend so much money to seek for power while several persons are wallowing in poverty, deprivation and hopelessness amongst their midst.
It was no doubt in response to meet the plight of the orphans and children with special needs, that the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Esohe Frances lkponmwen led the Judiciary in the state on a charity walk to charilove centre to identify with these categories of persons and give a token to them.
In the words of the Chief Judge who was accompanied by Judges, magistrates and other judiciary staff, it was the lord that laid it in her heart to visit the Charliove centre of disadvantaged and marginalized children.
“As I thought of the usual charity walk to open the legal year, the lord put it in my heart that we should not just be seen as punishing those who offend in the society, but the judiciary as a whole must also be seen as serving the community. I then thought we should pay a visit to Project Charilove and give a token of what we have. ‘
“We have all come and we have seen. When we are in our little corner we grumble a lot about how hard things are. But if we move out to see what people are going through, especially children who from no fault of theirs are born with certain disabilities, you will want to stop and think about their plight and give to ensure they have a better life. Many of them from what I have read, when some people have children with disabilities, they lock them in the house or throw them away so that people will not laugh at them. The mentality of our society is such that when anything happens to anybody, the thinking is that it is because of the evil the person has done“
“But as an enlightened arm of the government, we should begin to partner with other arms of the society that this children who are born with disability is no fault of theirs and we need to support them.”
The founder and coordinator of Charilove centre, Christopher Omusi who had earlier condemned the vote buying and election malpractice by politicians noted that such practices does not mean well for the people in the country as such action result in dare consequences for Nigeria and organs such as Charilove in particular and humanity at large.
“I wish to state categorically that any individual or government that encourages and promotes vote buying and election malpractices does not mean well for the people of this country. Such individual or government is largely satanic and can only end up creating a society that is utterly deformed and disabled.
“I pray that the Judiciary will in the name of God do its best to ensure that people do not drag Nigeria to that awful state. I thank Edo state Judiciary for finding Charilove as a place to channel its maiden and historic walk. It is certainly divinely inspired. God has used Edo state Judiciary today to uplift our drooping spirit and to keep our charilove hope alive.
“Your coming here: physically means a whole lot more to charilove than any award from anywhere in the world. Thank you for coming to help wipe some of our over flowing tears, not essentially for ourselves but for our country Nigeria,” he added.
Public Notice!
Please note that the UNVEILING OF THE NEW EDITION OF THE EDO STATE HIGH COURT JUDICIARY NEWSREEL MAGAZINE; NEW HIGH COURT CIVIL PROCEDURE RULES 2018, MAGISTRATES COURT RULES & CUSTOMARY COURT RULES FOLLOWED BY INSPECTION OF RENOVATION & CONSTRUCTION SITES Slated between 10:00 am – 10:30 am, 11-10-2018, of the 2018/2019 Legal Year Ceremonies have been rescheduled for 12:00pm – 12:30pm, 11-10-2018
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Hon. The Chief Judge of Edo State, The Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen, FCJEI, has directed that due to the threatened Nationwide strike action by the NLC, the Edo State 2018/2019 Legal Year Ceremonies earlier scheduled to hold 27th and 28th of September, 2018 be rescheduled for the 11th and 12th of October, 2018.
All inconveniences occasioned by this reschedule are deeply regretted, please.
Signed
Chief Registrar
INVITATION TO CEREMONIES MARKING THE OPENING OF THE 2018/2019 LEGAL YEAR OF THE EDO STATE JUDICIARY
The Honourable the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice E. F. Ikponmwen, FCJEI, has directed that I respectfully write to inform and invite you to the ceremonies marking the opening of the 2018/2019 Legal Year which is scheduled for Thursday 27th September, 2018 and Friday 28th September, 2018.
The Ceremonies are scheduled as follows:-
27th Sept. 2018 7:00am – 8:00am Charity walk from High Court to the Ring Road to visit Project Charilove then back to the High Court.
10:00am – 10:30am Unveiling and distribution of the New Edition of the Edo State Judiciary Newsreel Magazine, new High Court Civil Court Procedure Rules 2018,
Magistrates Court Rules & Area/District Court Rules followed by inspection of renovation & construction sites.
3:30pm – 5:30pm Table Tennis & Lawn Tennis tournament at the Judges; Lodge, G.R.A., Benin City.
28th Sept., 2018 9:30am – 10:45am An Interdenominational Service to mark the formal opening of the 2018/2019 Legal Year at the High Court Complex, Sapele Road, Benin City.
11:00am – 11:30am Inspection of Guard of Honour by The Honourable, the Chief Judge of Edo State/Photographs at The High Court Complex, Sapele Road, Benin
City.
12noon – 2:00pm Special Court Session at High Court 1, Benin City.
I respectfully on behalf of the Edo State Judiciary request that you are expected to deliver a speech at the opening ceremony on Friday, the 28th day of September, 2018 after consultation with the Chairmen of Ekpoma, Auchi, Uromi and Igarra Branches.
Accept, the assurances of the esteemed regard of The Honourable the Chief Judge, Please.
Yours sincerely,
A. E. Aibaogun (Mrs.),
Chief Inspector,
For: Chief Registrar.
RESUMPTION OF HON. JUDGES OF EDO STATE JUDICIARY
This is to inform the general public of the resumption of the Hon. Judges of Edo State Judiciary from their annual vacation on the 24th day of September, 2018. Normal court activities have since began.
