Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu, Reporting
Edo State, Nigeria
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated his commitment to prioritizing reforms aimed at ensuring the independence of the state’s Judiciary.
This assurance was given during a courtesy visit by members of the body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) led by Ighodalo Imadengbelo at the Government House in Benin City, the capital of Edo State.
Governor Obaseki emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Judiciary and other stakeholders to maintain the current state of peace, security, and stability in the region. He expressed his government’s dedication to supporting the Judiciary and creating a safe and conducive environment for its effective functioning.
“I want to leave a stronger Judiciary than I met. We believe in the independence of the Judiciary, and that’s why I have signed into law the autonomy bill of the Judiciary and the legislative arm of government,” stated Governor Obaseki.
Highlighting the crucial role of the Judiciary in upholding democracy, he added, “The Judiciary is the bastion of our democracy, as it’s the Judiciary we run to when politicians don’t agree. The Judiciary is very important and the basis for our existence because without law and order there will be anarchy.”
Governor Obaseki further outlined his administration’s investments in physical infrastructure for the Judiciary, including the construction of official accommodations for Judges across the state. He emphasized plans for additional developments, including the revamping of the Magistracy and the commissioning of Magistrate Courts.
“We have worked to improve the efficiency of the Judiciary through training in excess of 100 court reporters over the last few years, deploying technology, and connecting our Courts across the State with fibers and high-speed internet connectivity,” Obaseki explained. “We will make all the investments needed to make our Judiciary number one in Nigeria.”
Acknowledging the appreciation from the Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Governor Obaseki underscored the importance of a comprehensive reform process for the Judiciary itself, surpassing the significance of physical infrastructure improvements.