President Bola Tinubu has appointed new Service Chiefs in Nigeria’s Armed Forces, with the changes taking immediate effect. General Olufemi Oluyede is the new Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding General Christopher Musa.
The key appointments also include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. These appointments aim to bolster Nigeria’s security framework. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence, ensuring continuity in strategic intelligence operations.
President Tinubu urged the new Service Chiefs to foster professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship within the military. He expressed appreciation to the outgoing Service Chiefs for their dedicated service and leadership, wishing them well in their future endeavors. The new appointees are expected to build on existing efforts to enhance security and stability in the country.
It was gathered that the tanker overturned on the poorly maintained road, spilling petrol which ignited shortly after the crash. Reports indicate many victims were attempting to scoop fuel from the wreckage when the explosion happened, exacerbating the casualties.
Aishatu Sa’adu the Niger State Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander, confirmed the incident, warning against dangerous fuel scooping practices.
Farouk Kawo, Chairman of the Niger State Tanker Drivers Association has also described the tragedy as “devastating and avoidable,” blaming the poor state of the Bida-Agaie road for recurrent accidents – over 30 tanker accidents occurred on this route in October alone, solʻiciting Governor Umaru Bago to urgently repair the road to prevent further loss of life.
The injured victims were taken to the Federal Medical Centre Bida for treatment.
Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago has extended condolences, describing the incident as “worrisome, unfortunate, and pathetic”.
In corridors where justice seeks its voice, You strode; steady, sure, a mentor in each choice.
Dr. Samson Osagie, whose name became the vow That equity and dignity would never bow.
When the scales were tilted by fear or by might, You lifted the balance into the light.
As Attorney‑General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, you served With tireless mind, with seasoned will, untired nerve.
You reaffirmed this land’s resolve: transparency, open doors, In the “Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative” you helped set the course.
You championed the right of every citizen to seek their redress, Through mediation, legal‑aid reforms, the weak no longer less.
You vowed justice swift and sure: convictions affirmed, In the highest court the sentence upheld a resolute stand confirmed.
In the face of grave allegations, you stood firm, cleared, returned, Your loyalty to service steadfast, your integrity confirmed. And when matters of children’s rights and safety rose to alarm, You answered with speed, compassion, law’s protective arm.
O guide, O mentor, O friend, You carried not just title, but the weight of lives and hopes. In decisions quiet but mighty, in reforms that humbly ripple, You showed that leadership can serve, uplift, and heal.
Now, as the chapter turns and you step toward fresh fields, Know that your steps leave footprints many will follow. We your supporters, your admirers, your loyal witnesses, stand ready to walk beside you in whatever path you choose.
May the future’s dawn greet you with open sky, May opportunity blossom in vistas you explore. And may your legacy here in Edo’s courts and streets Endure as testament to what a leader can be.
With deepest respect and enduring loyalty, We send you forth, Dr. Samson Osagie; May your wisdom continue to kindle hope, May your heart continue to champion justice, And may your name remain, in memory and in action, A beacon bright for those who follow.
Former Attorney General of Edo State and Managing Partner, Law and Justice Chambers, Dr. Samson Osagie has congratulated Oba Ewuare II, the revered Oba of Benin, on his 9th coronation anniversary.
In a statement which he personally signed, Dr. Osagie hailed the Benin Monarch as “a beacon of resilience and hope” and commended Oba Ewuare II’s exemplary leadership, stating, “Your Majesty’s reign has ushered in an era of peace, stability, and cultural revitalization, profoundly impacting the Great Benin Kingdom.”
He further praised the monarch’s impactful leadership, noting that the Benin Kingdom stands as “a shining testament to resilience and hope,” with Oba Ewuare II’s reign fostering a climate of peace, stability, and a vibrant cultural renaissance.
As the 40th Oba of Benin, crowned on October 20, 2016, Oba Ewuare II continues to garner accolades for his unwavering commitment to promoting harmony and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Benin.
As Oba Ewuare II’s reign continues to flourish, Dr. Osagie prayed for divine blessings, guidance, and protection upon the monarch and the Benin Kingdom, while wishing him a reign filled with peace, prosperity, and collective greatness.
A pillar of justice, now departed from the helm, Your tenure as Attorney General, a chapter to Tell. With integrity and wisdom, you guided the way, Standing firm, a champion of what is right.
You managed diverse souls with grace and care, A boss anyone could wish for, beyond compare. Your patience and understanding, a beacon bright, Inspiring us to strive with all our might.
Every one in the office had their unique flair, But you tolerated and appreciated us with love and care. May your legacy of leadership, compassion, and heart, Continue to inspire those who cross your path
May the times ahead be filled with beautiful testimonies, of God’s goodness and blessings that overflow. You have my best wishes sir. May your future be bright, and your heart be blessed.
The Honourable, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justices of the Court of Appeal here present, My Lords, the Judges of the High Court of Edo State (serving and retired) and other judges here present, Our Learned Senior Advocates of Nigeria, My Dignified Life Benchers and other Members of the Body of Benchers The Learned Permanent Secretary, Directors and State Counsels, Edo State Ministry of Justice Principal Officers of the Edo State Judiciary led by the Chief Registrar of the High Court, Your Worships, the Chief Magistrate and other Magistrates Courts, Your Honours, the President of Area Customary Courts, The Learned Chairman, NBA, Benin(Lion) Bar & other Chairmen and Members of the NBA; Ekpoma, Uromi, Auchi and Igarra Branches The Chairman, ICMC, Edo State Multi-Door Court Distinguished members of the Bar, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen,
INTRODUCTION My Lord, the Honourable, The Chief Judge of Edo State, a number of Lawyers have passed on in the preceeding Legal year and therefore permit me to request all of us to rise to observe a minute silence in honour of all our departed professional colleagues.
MAY THE SOULS OF ALL THE LAWYERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS IN THE JUSTICE SECTOR IN EDO STATE WHO DEPARTED IN THE COURSE OF THE OUTGONE LEGAL YEAR THROUGH THE MERCIES OF GOD REST IN PERFECT PEACE. AMEN.
My Lords and distinguished members of the Legal profession, it is with profound humility and a deep sense of duty, as the Chief Law Officer of Edo State that I stand before you all on behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, to felicitate with the Honourable, The Chief Judge of Edo State and the entire Judiciary of our dear State, and indeed the Bar, on yet again another auspicious occasion of the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Edo State Judiciary. This annual event of the gathering of the Judiciary and the Bar to commemorate the commencement of a new Legal year offers us the opportunity to reflect on not only the successes recorded, but more importantly the challenges faced in the entire value chain of the Justice delivery system. It is also an opportunity for us to re-commit ourselves to the ideals of justice and the rule of law in a democratic society. It is a sacred reminder that the wheels of justice must continue to turn, firmly, fairly, and fearlessly, in the service of our people and in defence of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other laws of Edo State. The framers of our Constitution in keeping with what has become global best practice in the form and structure of government bifurcated the core functions of government between the Legislature, Executive and the Judiciary in Part 11, Sections 4, 5 and 6. In specific terms Section 6(2),(4)a,(5)d,e, and i establishes the superior courts of records of the FCT and States of the Federation and empower the State Legislatures to establish other courts with subordinate jurisdiction to those created by the Constitution. In doing this, My Lords and gentlemen of the bar, the Constitution envisages that the Courts, regardless of it’s category, shallserve the end of Justice in the society and therefore give meaning to thedoing this, My Lords and gentlemen of the bar, the Constitution envisages that the Courts, regardless of it’s category, shall serve the end of Justice in the society and therefore give meaning to the overall purpose of government as provided in Section 14(1)c, to wit: “(1)The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be a State based on the principles of democracy and social justice. (2)It is hereby, accordingly, declared that-… (b)the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government…” The Edo State Judiciary and the Bar must therefore consistently guarantee justice for the well-being of the Edo people.
Commendation to the Judiciary* Permit me to commend the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, for his purposeful leadership and steady reforms which continue to strengthen our judicial system in this State.In the outgone legal year, our courts recorded landmark judgments that deepened the rule of law,strengthened constitutionalism, and reassured our citizens that justice, though sometimes delayed, can never be denied. Martin Luther King once said: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” This was as Theodore Parker, an erstwhile American Unitarian Minister posits that: “I do not pretend to understand the moral universe, the arc is a long one..But I do know that it bends towards justice”. This institution, under your Lordship’s watch, has demonstrated resilience and integrity in ensuring that the law remains an instrument of order and not of oppression.
I can say for a fact, that this Judiciary has remained consistent in applying the laws in many of its decisions and that calls for a reaffirmation of a resounding confidence in the Edo State Judiciary as indeed the last hope of the common man. In emphasizing the prestine role of the Judiciary MOHAMMED BABA IDRIS, Jsc in the recent Supreme Court case of ALHAJI HARUNA MAI-JEGA v. ALHAJI GARBA HARUNA & ORS (2025) LPELR – 81021(SC) remarked most eloquently thusly: “The Court, too, must operate with the highest degree of competence, impartiality, and wisdom. As Justices and Judges, our responsibility is to ensure that we preside over cases with absolute fairness, guided always by the principles of the law. The composition of the bench and its understanding of the matter before it is not merely procedural… it is the foundation upon which the legitimacy of any decision rests. Let us always remember that justice is not a prize to be won in a contest; it is a virtue to be pursued with diligence, consistency, and honor”.
The Role of the Bar and Bench As it is always said; the Bar and the Bench are like Siamese twins, indeed they are inseparable in the pursuit of justice. As we commence a new legal year, let us remind ourselves that justice delivery thrives when the Bar is courageous, and the Bench is impartial. To my learned colleagues in the Lion Bar and other Branches of the NBA in Edo State, I say this; our calling is a noble one! We are not merely advocates for hire; we are ministers in the temple of justice. Let us, therefore, conduct ourselves with the highest level of dignity, competence, integrity and professionalism that the public expects of us as members of the Legal profession. Although this is not a forum for recrimination and pointing accusing fingers, it can safely be mentioned that the conduct of some lawyers in our recent histoleaves sour taste on our lips. This conduct ranges from mode of dressing and appearance before judges to many other acts of conduct unbecoming of Legal Practitioners. I enjoin all of us to be exemplary and highly professional in our conduct at all times. In DON NIEMOGHA & ANOR v. OMOMADE ORUBAYI., The court held that: “It is trite, that the legal profession to which the advocate belongs occupies an unenviable position of pre-eminence. All members of the well cherished legal profession- as judges, barristers or solicitors- are uniquely under onerous duty to exhibit a very reasonable degree of knowledge, skill, courage, resilience, tact, intellect and most importantly an unquestionable integrity of the highest order. Undoubtedly, the fact that Legal practitioner ls pride themselves as members of the learned Honourable profession, notwithstanding the truth is that not a few see them in that light…” We must therefore, as Lawyers continue to strengthen the prestine virtues of honour, integrity, discipline and professionalism for which our profession has been sustained for centuries.
Justice and the Society The Legal Profession does not exist in a vacuum. It thrives within society and must respond to its challenges. Today, our people cry out against crime, economic hardship, social dislocation, and governance issues. In the midst of this, the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man. As scripture reminds us in Isaiah 1:17: “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” We must ensure that our courts are accessible, our procedures are efficient, and our judgments are timely, for justice delayed is indeed justice denied.
The Government’s Commitment
On its part, the Edo State Government led by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo remains steadfast in supporting the judiciary. The Government has committed itself to continue to improve judicial infrastructures, provide logistics support, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that justice delivery is not hindered by avoidable constraints. We recognize that a strong judiciary is the foundation of democracy, and as such, this administration is irrevocably committed to strengthening judicial independence while fostering synergy among all arms of government. Cognizant of the invaluable role of the Judiciary and especially Judicial officers, His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on 2nd December, 2024, wasted no time in swearing in three judges whose appointment along with five others were confirmed by the National Judicial Service Commission on June 16th, 2023 on the recommendations of the Edo State Judicial Service Commission, but for spurious and unfathomable political reasons were denied inauguration by the immediate past administration. This was one injustice done to judicial officers in the State, that this administration promptly redressed. Added to the foregoing, this administration has also passed into Law the extension of years of Service of Magistrates and Presidents of Magistrates and Area Customary Courts in Edo State in order for them to achieve tremendous milestones in their career and allow the State to benefit from their wealth of knowledge and experience on the lower Bench. These are all evidences of this administration’s commitment to fostering a governance architecture that promotes justice and fairness in a democratic society. The administration remains committed to sustaining its legacy ofpartnership with the judiciary at all times.
Peace and Security It is not in doubt that no development can take place where there is no peace and security. Indeed, peace and security are sine qua non to development and even the administration of justice. In consequence of this therefore, this administration has instituted a regime of zero tolerance for all forms of criminalities in Edo State. For the government to succeed, members of the Bar and the Judiciary must continue to support quick trials and prosecution of criminal elements in our society. Delays in trials which are usually occasioned by a number of factors can compromise justice and ultimately hurt the society. I acknowledge the challenges of prosecution of criminal cases and the ability of courts to hear them expeditiously, but this new legal year should witness a renewed vigour on the part of all stakeholders in the criminal justice administration, to endeavour to fast rack criminal trials and uphold the various penal laws in trials rather than technicalities. In that, justice will be served to all including the society which will become safer.
Charge for the New Legal Year As we open this new legal year, let it be a year of renewed commitment to truth and justice; firmer resolve to resist corruption in every form; closer cooperation between the Bar and the Bench; and greater service to the people whose hopes rest on us. In the celebrated dicta of the eminent British jurist, Lord Atkin, “Justice is not a cloistered virtue. It must be allowed to suffer the scrutiny of reasonable men”. Conclusion My Lords, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, let us, therefore, march into this Legal year with courage, integrity and above all a renewed hope of a greater future for our profession, State and Country.
Let us ensure that when the history of justice delivery in our time is written, it shall be said that we were faithful stewards who preserved the majesty of the law and the sanctity of justice. On behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, I wish the Honourable, the Chief Judge, the Judiciary, and the Bar, a fruitful and impactful 2025/2026 Legal Year. May God bless the Edo State Judiciary. May God bless the Lion Bar and other NBA Branches in Edo State. May God bless Edo State. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you!
Rt. Hon. Samson R. Osagie, FICMC, Ph.D Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Edo State
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has been conferred with the Public Leadership Award by the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Benin. The award ceremony took place during the faculty’s Golden Jubilee Celebration and Endowment Launch, marking the faculty’s 50-year anniversary.
Represented by Austin Aiyamenkhue, Esq., the Attorney General expressed delight and gratitude for the award, commended the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Osunde Omoruyi, for his good work, and encouraged him to continue elevating the department and institution, and also praised the Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, describing him as a man of results, and pledged his support whenever needed.
Earlier, the chairman of the Anniversary Committee, Professor Mustapha, thanked attendees for coming, noting that the awardees were carefully selected for their tremendous impact on society.
Also speaking, the Dean of Social Science, Prof. Omoruyi Osunde, lauded Dr. Osagie’s exemplary service, integrity, and outstanding contributions to governance and society as a two-term member of the House of Assembly and House of Representatives. “Your achievements continue to inspire our students, staff, and alumni.” Prof. Osunde added
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to various awardees, including Dr. Samson Osagie, in recognition of their remarkable contributions to the society through their various fields of endeavors.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Justice.
PHOTO Caption: Edo State Attorney General, Dr Samson Osagie, with his Public Leadership Award
In a remarkable display of unity and determination, the diaspora community is giving back to Edo State, their homeland. With nearly 32% of Nigeria’s $6 billion diaspora remittances recorded in June 2024, according to the World Bank, Edo State is poised to leverage this influx of resources to drive progress.
Recently, the Richard George Foundation Sensitization programme, held at the prestigious John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, showcased the potential for collaborative transactions between the government and the diaspora community. The event, anchored by a passionate advocate for human capital development, highlighted the milestone achievements recorded mutually.
Key stakeholders, including His Excellency the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Dr. (Mrs.) Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, Director General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Lady Astrid Arens, Founder of Voice Aids Association, Germany, and Barrister (Mrs.) Onomen Briggs, Chairman of the Edo State Board of Technical and Vocational Education, lent their support to the initiative.
With the diaspora agency as a major enabler, the stage is now set for a transactional conversation between the government of Edo State and its global diaspora. The question is no longer what the government alone can do, but what collective impact can be achieved as Edo State charts a new course.
As global attention shines on Africa, and Edo State gains an increasing share of the spotlight, the potential for growth and development is vast. By working together, the government and diaspora community can unlock new opportunities, drive economic growth, and create a brighter future for Edo State.
On Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, let us reaffirm our pledge to serve our nation with renewed conviction, dedication, and patriotism. Our country is our collective birthright and thus, it is our sacred duty to zealously guard and protect it. We have no other nation to call our own. The responsibility of developing our country rests squarely on our shoulders. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigerians.
Rt Hon Samson Osagie FICMC PhD Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Edo State
