In a decisive move to uphold judicial fairness, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State will today, December 2, 2024, swear in three High Court Judges-designate who were excluded by the previous administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The ceremony will take place at 1:00 PM at the State Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Benin City.

The judges—Ojo Maureen Osa, Godwin Jeff Okundamiya, and Edoghogho Eboigbe—were part of eight candidates approved by the National Judicial Council (NJC) in June 2023.
Despite their clearance, they were conspicuously left out during Obaseki’s swearing-in ceremony in May 2024, raising concerns about bias and favoritism in the judicial appointment process.

Governor Okpebholo’s decision to include the excluded judges underscored his administration’s commitment to restoring the integrity of the judiciary and ensuring that political interference does not undermine the rule of law.

Secretary to the State, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Government, praised the Governor’s action, stating, “This move reflects a commitment to justice, fairness, and the strengthening of the judiciary’s independence.”

The swearing-in marks a turning point in Edo’s judicial system, reinforcing the message that judicial appointments must be based on merit, not politics, and signaling a renewed era of transparency and impartiality.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made a bold declaration that his victory in the September 21 governorship election was achieved solely through faith in God, without seeking help from native doctors or prophets.

Speaking on Sunday at Winner’s Chapel in Akho, Irrua, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to God for his success.
His Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua in a statement issued on Sunday quoted the Governor to have said,
“No one but God could have accomplished this. This is the first time in Nigeria that someone contested and won without consulting any prophet or native doctor. My faith is in Christ alone,” he said.

The Governor emphasized that his victory was evidence of divine favor. “If God does not will it, then let it not be done. I did not rely on worldly strategies but trusted entirely in God, and He granted me success,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo attributed his confidence to his membership in Winner’s Chapel. “Both my Deputy and I are members of this church. While others leaned on media tactics, I leaned on God, and He delivered,” he revealed.

Pastor Peter Osawe of Winner’s Chapel, who preached on ‘Wisdom Kits for Joy and Rejoicing’, reminded the congregation that God is the ultimate factor in life. “Nothing happens without God’s knowledge. We must always draw strength from Him,” he said.

Later, Governor Okpebholo attended a service at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry in Illeh, Ekpoma.
Apostle Ehijele Unuayan praised the Governor for his commitment to Edo’s development and for approving automatic employment for First Class graduates of Edo origin.

In his address, the Governor reaffirmed his dedication to the state. “I am here to pray for the strength to move Edo forward, to use our resources wisely, and to ensure justice and fairness for all,” he stated.

Prayers for Continued Success
Both services concluded with prayers for Governor Okpebholo’s success, as he embarks on his mission to lead Edo State with faith and integrity over the next four years.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has praised Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, on his birthday.
The Governor lauded his significant contributions to the state’s education sector.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo praised Dr. Iyamu for his unwavering dedication to the development of education in Edo State.
He commended Dr. Iyamu’s patriotism and tireless efforts in advancing the state’s educational sector, highlighting his crucial role in fostering growth and innovation.

The Governor reflected on Dr. Iyamu’s recent participation in an emergency visit to Uyiosa and Oroma Primary Schools, where they exposed critical gaps in the Edo Best initiative, an educational program introduced by the previous administration. The visit underscored Dr. Iyamu’s commitment to ensuring that education in Edo State meets the highest standards.

Governor Okpebholo also lauded Dr. Iyamu’s efforts in positively engaging Edo’s youth and serving as a role model in the education sector. He described Dr. Iyamu as a pillar of support in the quest to revitalize the state’s educational framework.

The Governor concluded by praying for God’s continued blessings upon Dr. Iyamu, wishing him good health, wisdom, and strength to further contribute to the development of Edo State.