The Federal Government has declared Friday, September 5, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate Eid-ul-Mawlid, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, extended warm greetings to Muslims, urging them to emulate the Prophet’s virtues of peace, love, humility, tolerance, and compassion.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also called on Nigerians of all faiths to use the occasion to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country, and to support government efforts toward national harmony and sustainable development. He urged citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious, and supportive of government policies that enhance the well-being of all Nigerians.
The declaration was made in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister.
The Benin Consultative Forum (BCF) has released a statement mourning the passing of Former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, who was the President of the Forum until his death on August 31, 2025.
The statement was jointly signed by the Vice President Rt. Hon. Samson Osagie, Ph.D., and Secretary Prof. Edoba Omorogie, SAN
The BCF described Dr. Arase as a remarkable individual who prioritized giving back to society. The BCF highlighted Dr. Arase’s scholarly enterprise, noting that he leveraged his years of experience in the security and civil relations sector to benefit society through his books.
These books offered prescriptions for advancing Nigeria’s internal security system and electoral management. Dr. Arase’s contributions to security and policing in Nigeria have left a lasting impact on the country. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of security experts and policymakers, who draw on his experiences and insights to shape their own approaches to security management and community engagement.
During his tenure as IGP, Dr. Arase implemented various reforms aimed at modernizing the Nigeria Police Force and improving its relationship with the public. His leadership style and commitment to community policing earned him widespread recognition and respect.
The BCF leadership expressed deep sadness over Dr. Arase’s unexpected passing, describing him as “Uhunosievbokoko,” meaning a lover of people who prioritized giving back to society.
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has sent birthday greetings to the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief Bisi Idaomi.
In a statement, the Attorney General felicitated with Chief Idaomi on the auspicious occasion of her birthday and, on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, highlighted her remarkable dedication to the advancement of women and children in the State.
“Your dedication to the advancement of women and children in the State has become legendary. Your tireless service to our state is truly commendable,” he said.
As the Commissioner for Women Affairs marks another year of life, the Attorney General wishes her continued strength, wisdom, and success in all her endeavors.
“Happy Birthday, and many happy returns!” he concluded.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer Ministry of Justice
The Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, who passed away at a private hospital in Abuja at the age of 69, describing his death as a profound loss to Edo State, the Benin Kingdom, and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Osagie, who had the honour of representing Dr. Arase as keynote speaker at the 32nd Edo Convention in Montreal, Canada, said the news of his passing came as a devastating shock. “The news of his sudden death shook me to my marrow,” he remarked with deep emotion.
Reflecting on the illustrious career and towering contributions of the late Dr. Arase, the Attorney-General noted his distinguished service as a lawyer, security consultant, and reform-minded Inspector-General of Police. He also commended his sterling leadership as President of the Benin Consultative Forum, a role through which he championed the socio-political and cultural advancement of the Edo people.
“He made significant contributions not only to Edo State and the Benin Nation but also to the Nigerian state as a whole. His unwavering commitment to justice, security, and communal development set him apart as one of the most illustrious sons of our land,” Dr. Osagie affirmed.
On a personal note, Dr. Osagie described the late IGP as more than a statesman, a mentor and guide whose generosity of spirit and wisdom paved the way for many. “Dr. Arase has remained a mentor to me and to many others, providing pathways through the difficult terrains of Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. His death is not just a national loss, but a personal one to me,” he said.
The Attorney-General extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, to his colleagues, and to the Edo community worldwide. He prayed for divine comfort for all who mourn and for the peaceful repose of the soul of Dr. Solomon Arase.
“May his indelible legacy of service, courage, and leadership continue to inspire generations yet unborn,” he concluded.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer Ministry of Justice
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has congratulated Governor Monday Okpebholo on his 55th birthday.
Describing the Governor’s leadership as transformative, Dr. Osagie highlights the remarkable progress in the justice sector, infrastructural development, education, and other key areas within a short span of nine months.
He noted that the Governor’s vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the progress and well-being of Edo State have been a source of inspiration to every one and lauded His Excellency’s leadership style which has not only brought hope but has also set a new standard for public service.
On behalf of the Ministry of Justice, Dr. Osagie wishes the Governor a joyous celebration and a fruitful year ahead. ” Your Excellency. May God grant you many more years of celebrations and impactful service to Edo State,” he said.
As the Governor celebrates another year of life, the Attorney General wishes him well, praying for continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer Ministry of Justice.
As this year’s NBA Conference holds on August 22nd to 29th, the Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Samson Osagie, has extended a warm welcome to delegates at the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference (NBA AGC) 2025, themed “Stand Out, Stand Tall”.
In his message, he stated:
Welcome To The Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference 2025
This year’s Conference with the theme “Stand Out, Stand Tall” is an invitation to all Lawyers in Nigeria and beyond, to leverage their unique positions as Ministers in the temple of Justice to help to continue the practice of Law with Justice, development and the rule of law as the ultimate goal of the Legal Profession.
I therefore, welcome all delegates, particularly delegates from Edo State, to the NBA 2025 AGC holding at the Coal City of Enugu, South East Nigeria, to the exhilarating experience of the impactfull deliberations in the various sessions of the Conference.
Let’s Stand Out and Stand Tall !
Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, FICMC, Ph.D Hon Attorney General And Commissioner For Justice Edo State.
In a significant development for the education sector in Edo State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Samson Osagie has announced a major breakthrough for his alma mater, IYAYI EFIANAYI GRAMMAR SCHOOL EGBA formerly know as EGBA GRAMMAR SCHOOL, EGBA HEIGHTS, EGBA,in Uhunmwode Local Government Area as approved by the State Executive Council under the leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, SENATOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO.
His statement read thus: I am happy to announce that the Edo State Executive Council has approved the Renovation and Remodeling of Iyayi Efianayi Grammar School Egba at the cost of over one billion naira. The approval was given today 19th August, 2025 at the weekly State Executive Council meeting presided by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The project was awarded to two contractors and are expected to commence work immediately.
I want to sincerely thank His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo for granting my request to resuscitate my, Our Alma Mater, the great Egba Heights.
Congratulations to All Students of Iyayi Efianayi(Egba) Grammar School, Egba, Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State. Long live Edo State
God bless Nigeria
Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD [1985 Set]. Hon Attorney General And Commissioner For Justice Edo State
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has congratulated Senator-elect Hon. Joseph Ikpea and Rep-elect Hon. Omosede Igbinedion on their by-election victories.
In his congratulatory message, Dr. Osagie praised their dedication and perseverance, expressing confidence in their ability to serve with integrity and distinction. He noted that their wins are a testament to the trust and confidence of the electorate.
The Attorney General commended the Governor for ensuring a peaceful electoral process and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free and fair election. He also applauded the electorate for participating in the democratic process.
As Hon Ikpea and Igbinedion embarks on their new assignment, the Attorney General wishes them wisdom and success, and expressed optimism about their positive impact on constituents.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer Ministry of Justice
Edo Attorney General Calls for Bail System Reforms at the Ondo NBA Law Week
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has called for reforms to the bail system in Nigeria to ensure fairness and efficiency.
He made this known while delivering a paper at the Law Week of the Ondo State Chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) as a guest speaker on a topic titled “Bail Administration in Nigeria: Balancing the Presumption of Innocence and Public Interest.”
In his speech, Dr. Osagie highlighted the challenges facing the bail system, including inconsistencies in judicial discretion and the impact of public opinion.
“The bail system in Nigeria is plagued by inconsistencies and challenges that threaten the very fabric of justice,” Osagie said. “There is a need for reforms to ensure that bail decisions are made with consistency and fairness, taking into account the circumstances of each case.” He added.
He emphasized the importance of balancing individual liberty with public interest, noting that the courts must ensure that public safety and security are not compromised.
The Attorney General’s call for reforms was well-received by the audience, comprising legal practitioners and scholars.
The NBA Law Week provided a fitting platform for the discussion, bringing together stakeholders to share ideas and shape the future of the legal profession as the event highlighted the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between the judiciary, lawyers, and policymakers to promote justice and fairness in Nigeria’s legal system.
Clementina Agweda Public Relations Officer Ministry of Justice
As the people of Ovia Federal Constituency goes to the polls tomorrow to elect a new representative into the House of Representatives to fill the vacancy created by the election of His Excellency, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa, as Deputy Governor of Edo State, I wish you a resounding success at the polls, as the Candidate of the All Progressives Congress.
It is my prayer that God will give you favor in the sight of Ovia voters and grant you success. Victory, Victory shall be yours and the All Progressives Congress.
Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD Hon Attorney General And Commissioner For Justice Edo State
