OKPEBHOLO DRIVES BOLD REFORMS, RESTORES ACCESS TO JUSTICE IN EDO JUDICIARY

The Edo State Government has unveiled far-reaching reforms in the justice sector under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, aimed at ensuring justice is more accessible, efficient, and fair to all citizens.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, and made available to journalists.

Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Raphael Osagie, who is leading the reforms, said that within nine months in office, Governor Okpebholo has repositioned the Ministry of Justice as the foundation of peace, order, and good governance in the state.

According to him, “Governor Okpebholo’s vision is clear — to build a secure and developed Edo State through justice. That is why he has given full direction and support to the Ministry to make justice a reality for every Edo citizen.”

Osagie explained that the Department of Public Prosecutions is currently handling over 2,000 active criminal cases, including murder, robbery, kidnapping, arson, and sexual violence. Several convictions have already been secured and upheld by higher courts, reflecting the commitment and efficiency of Edo prosecutors.

He added that the administration has streamlined the process of legal opinions and prosecutions. Through the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme, suspects now have immediate access to legal representation upon arrest, thereby safeguarding fairness and human rights. On the civil front, the state has successfully defended hundreds of cases, won multiple judgments, and mediated land disputes, saving citizens years of costly litigation.

On legislative interventions, he highlighted key achievements such as the extension of magistrates’ retirement age, creation of new regulatory agencies, amendments to property protection laws, and the development of a healthcare regulation framework.

The Attorney-General further noted that the Citizens’ Mediation Centre and the Department of Citizens’ Rights have been strengthened, empowering ordinary citizens to resolve disputes — including domestic violence and workplace conflicts — without long court battles.

Speaking on correctional reforms, he said Governor Okpebholo has launched initiatives to decongest custodial centres, particularly focusing on inmates held for years over bailable offences. “This is not just legal reform; it is a humane intervention that restores dignity and offers people a second chance at life,” Osagie stressed.

He also revealed that institutional strengthening is ongoing, with state counsels undergoing retraining at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, the creation of a dedicated appeals office, and plans for a fully digitised law library and e-case management system.

He concluded: “Governor Okpebholo is restoring justice as the heartbeat of governance. By prosecuting criminals swiftly, defending citizens’ rights, reforming laws, mediating disputes, and giving voice to the vulnerable, his administration is sending a clear message — justice in Edo State is for everyone, not just the privileged few.”

The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining these reforms, assuring citizens that justice delivery will remain a priority for peace, security, and sustainable development.