The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has begun sweeping reforms in the justice sector.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the government explained that the reforms aim to make justice more accessible, efficient, and fair for all citizens.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Raphael Osagie, who midwifed these bold reforms, said Governor Okpebholo has repositioned the Ministry of Justice within nine months of assuming office as the bedrock of peace, order, and good governance.
According to him, “The vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo is clear: to build a secure and developed state through justice. That is why he has given full direction and backing to the Ministry to ensure justice becomes the lived reality of every Edo person.”
He explained that the Department of Public Prosecutions is currently handling over 2,000 active criminal cases, including murder, robbery, kidnapping, arson, and sexual violence. Dozens of convictions have already been secured and upheld by higher courts, demonstrating the diligence and efficiency of Edo prosecutors.
He further emphasised that Governor Okpebholo’s administration has streamlined the process of rendering legal opinions and initiating prosecutions.
Through the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme, suspects now enjoy immediate access to legal representation at the point of arrest, ensuring fairness and respect for human rights.
On the civil front, the state has successfully defended hundreds of cases, secured multiple judgments, and mediated sensitive land disputes, saving citizens years of litigation.
Highlighting recent legislative interventions, Osagie pointed to the extension of retirement age for magistrates, the establishment of new regulatory agencies, amendments to property protection laws, and the development of a new healthcare regulation framework.
He added that the Citizens’ Mediation Centre and the Department of Citizens’ Rights have been strengthened to empower ordinary Edo citizens to resolve domestic violence and workplace conflicts, without prolonged court processes.
On correctional reforms, he said Governor Okpebholo has directed a bold initiative to decongest custodial centres, focusing on inmates held for years over bailable offences.
“This is not just a legal reform; it is a humane intervention that restores dignity and gives people a second chance at life,” he said.
He also revealed that the Ministry is undergoing institutional strengthening through retraining state counsels at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, establishing a dedicated appeals office, and plans for a fully digitised law library and e-case management system.
He concluded: “What Governor Okpebholo is doing is restoring justice as the heartbeat of governance. By ensuring criminals are swiftly prosecuted, by defending citizens’ rights in civil cases, by reforming our laws, by mediating disputes before they escalate, and by giving voice to the vulnerable, the administration of Governor Okpebholo is sending a clear message that justice in Edo State is for all, not just the privileged few.”
The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining these reforms, assuring citizens that justice delivery will continue to be prioritised as a driver of peace, security, and sustainable development.
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