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.
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.”
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
SPEECH BY HON JUSTICE E.F. IKPONMWEN,FCJEI, CHIEF JUDGE OF EDO STATE, AT THE VALEDICTORY COURT SESSION HELD THIS 18TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2018 IN HONOUR OF THE HON. MR. JUSTICE JAMES AIGBULOKO OYAKHIROME.
SPEECH BY HON JUSTICE E. F. IKPONMWEN DEC. 2018 AT HON. JUSTICE OYAKHIROME VALEDICTORY COURT SESSION
Legal Officers Independence: Addressing the Challenges in Public Sector_A Paper Delivered at the International Conference for Legal Officers In Africa’s Public Organisations. PRESENTED BY Hon. Justice Esohe Frances Ikponmwen FCJEI; FICMC Chief Judge, Edo State
Legal Officers Independence; Addressing the Challenges in Public Sector
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
