Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the appointment of Hon. Justice Mary Nekpen Asemota as the Acting President of the Edo State Customary Court of Appeal.
The appointment reflects the governor’s commitment to strengthening the state’s judiciary and ensuring the effective administration of justice within the customary court system.
The appointment was announced by the Edo State Government in a statement signed by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government and is in accordance with Section 55(1) of the Customary Court of Appeal (Re-establishment) Law of Edo State, 2025.
The provision empowers the Governor to appoint the most senior judge of the defunct Customary Court of Appeal who is still in service, pending the recommendation of a substantive President and judges by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
According to the government, Hon. Justice Asemota emerged as the most senior eligible judge of the defunct Customary Court of Appeal still serving within the Edo State Judiciary, making her qualified for the position under the provisions of the law.
Justice Asemota is widely regarded as one of the state’s most accomplished judicial officers, with a distinguished legal career spanning more than four decades.
Her professional journey has covered private legal practice, Customary Court administration, appellate adjudication at the Edo State Customary Court of Appeal, and service on the High Court bench.
Since her appointment as a Judge of the Edo State High Court in March 2016, Justice Asemota has continued to demonstrate exceptional legal expertise, institutional knowledge, and a steadfast commitment to the administration of justice.
The Edo State Government noted that her appointment reflects her outstanding record of service, leadership, integrity, and contributions to the development of the legal profession and the justice system in the state.
Justice Asemota is expected to be sworn into office by Governor Okpebholo at a date to be announced.
