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Protocol

 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

By:The Editor

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

By :The Editor

The President of the African Bar Association (AfBA), High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark, on Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja with the aim to strengthen ties between the Association and the Nigerian Army ahead of AfBA’s upcoming annual conference in Accra, Ghana, scheduled for 19th-23rd October 2025.

The AfBA President was accompanied by a high powered delegation, including Mohammed Ndanyako, SAN (Vice President, Budget & Finance); Dr Samson Osagie (AfBA Council member/Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Edo State); Moses Ebute, SAN (Legal Adviser); Major General Wambai (member); Afam Okeke (Director of Treasury); Owoicho Adejo-Ogiri (Director of Membership); Mimi Ayua (AfBA Women Forum) and Teyojesam Eko (media aide to the AfBA President). The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) was joined by a number of Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and senior military representatives.

In his remarks, High Chief Eddy Mark commended the Nigerian Army for its longstanding partnership with AfBA. He noted that since AfBA’s revival in 2016, the Nigerian Army has consistently participated in its annual conferences. He praised the COAS for approving a strong delegation of officers to attend the upcoming conference in Ghana, themed “Foreign Interests in Africa: Exploitation or Investment?”

He also highlighted AfBA’s mission since its founding in 1971, emphasizing its commitment to promoting peace, resolving conflicts across African states, and supporting African lawyers both on the continent and in the diaspora. He assured the Nigerian Army of AfBA’s continued advocacy for the rights and welfare of military personnel, while also pledging legal support on issues both locally and internationally.

Responding, Lt Gen Oluyede welcomed the AfBA delegation and acknowledged the Association’s defence of Nigeria in international fora. The COAS called for stronger collaboration between the legal profession and the military, urging Nigerian lawyers to better understand the unique challenges of the army. He also appealed for judicial support in terrorism cases, noting the setbacks caused by technicalities at appellate courts.

Lt Gen Oluyede reiterated the Army’s readiness to collaborate with AfBA in sensitizing the public and judiciary on the military’s efforts to protect the nation.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of a plaque of honour to African Bar Association, President Eddy Mark by the Chief of Army Staff, followed by a group photograph to commemorate the visit.

The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Samson Osagie has congratulated Hon Charles E Khorutomwen Idahosa, JP, OFR, a revered leader and stalwart in Nigerian politics, on his 72nd birthday, celebrating his remarkable contributions to democracy and the development of Edo State.

The birthday greetings reads:

I, Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD heartily congratulates our Leader Hon Charles Idahosa,OFR on his 72nd birthday.

Your life of service to humanity has continued to resonate with the people particularly those who had the privilege to undergo tutelage under your leadership.

You have made immense contributions to the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria and development of our dear State.

I wish you many more years of celebrations in good health and sound mind. Happy Birthday Our Dear Leader and Many happy returns.

Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD

Hon Attorney General And Commissioner for Justice.

Edo State.

A PEACE IN CEMETERY.

The Governor Fubara return to office yesterday after six months emergency rule in Rivers State. Wike and Fubara, both men declared that peace has returned to their state. But political watchers the alleged peace that has returned to Rivers State can be likened to the serenity found in a cemetery, where conflicts are buried, and tranquility reigns. After six months of emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu, Governor Siminalayi Fubara declared that peace and stability have been restored to the state. This new found peace is attributed to the reconciliation efforts brokered by the President, which brought together key stakeholders, including Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

Key Aspects of the Peace:

Reconciliation: Fubara and Wike have accepted to “bury the hatchet” and work towards the progress of Rivers State.
Commitment to Peace:
The Governor has emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stating that “the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war”.
Collaboration:

Fubara has pledged to work harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate social and economic advancement
Inclusiveness:

The Governor has called on all citizens to join hands in rebuilding the state, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation.

Challenges Ahead:

Sustaining Peace: The Governor acknowledges that sustaining peace will require continued efforts and commitment from all stakeholders.
Rebuilding

Trust:

Fubara has emphasized the need to rebuild trust and foster inclusiveness to secure a peaceful and prosperous state.

Addressing Governance:

The state will need to address governance challenges and ensure effective legislative-executive cooperation

Overall, the peace that has returned to Rivers State is a fragile one, requiring careful nurturing and commitment from all stakeholders to ensure its sustainability.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE FUTURE PEACE:

The peace between Wike and Fubara in Rivers State seems fragile, with both leaders seemingly committed to maintaining the truce for now. However, underlying tensions and competing interests may threaten the sustainability of this peace.

Challenges to the Peace

• 2027 Elections:

The power struggle between Wike and Fubara will likely intensify as the 2027 elections approach, with Wike potentially seeking to install a loyal protege and Fubara fighting to secure his own political legacy.

Budget Approval:

The Rivers State House of Assembly’s approval of Fubara’s budget will be a crucial test of the peace, with any amendments or rejection potentially reigniting tensions.

Local Government Elections:

Control of the 23 local government areas is a significant source of power and influence, and disputes over the timing or results of these elections could trigger another crisis.

• Impeachment Threats:

The threat of impeachment hangs over Fubara’s head, and if the legislature revives moves to impeach him or his deputy, the truce will likely collapse.

Key Players’ Positions:

• Wike’s Stance :

Wike has declared that he has forgiven Fubara and is committed to peace, but his actions and words suggest he still wields significant influence and may be positioning himself for future power struggles.

Fubara’s Commitment:

Fubara has pledged to prioritize peace and stability, acknowledging Wike as “our leader” and expressing commitment to reconciliation and inclusiveness.

Uncertainty Ahead:

Given the complex web of interests and alliances, the future of the peace between Wike and Fubara remains uncertain. While both leaders have publicly committed to peace, the underlying tensions and power dynamics may ultimately determine the trajectory of events in Rivers State.
Only time shall tell what is in the offing for Rivers people politically.

Julius Ekhovbiye Onaghise writes from Benin City

The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, recently made a presentation on bail administration, highlighting the delicate balance between the presumption of innocence and public interest. His presentation dealt with expertise in law and governance, providing valuable insights into the complexities of bail laws and practices.

This presentation underscores the importance of ensuring justice is served while protecting the rights of all citizens, shedding light on the intricacies of bail administration in Nigeria’s justice system.

President Bola Tinubu has lifted the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight, September 17, 2025.

The state of emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, due to a constitutional impasse between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the House of Assembly.

With the lifting of the emergency, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly will resume work on September 18, 2025.

He also thanked the National Assembly for approving the emergency declaration and the traditional rulers and people of Rivers State for their support during the crisis. He further urged governors and lawmakers across the country to prioritize collaboration and peace to ensure the delivery of democracy’s benefits to the people.