Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, has commended the Edo State Government, security agencies, the judiciary and legal practitioners for their coordinated efforts in ensuring the prompt investigation, prosecution and determination of the criminal case arising from the kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market in Benin City.
Chairman of the NBA Benin Branch, Omorodion Omoigui, made the commendation during a press briefing, describing the handling of the case as a demonstration that speed and due process can effectively coexist in the administration of criminal justice.
Omoigui noted that the swift progression of the case underscored the importance of effective collaboration among relevant institutions in tackling serious crimes and ensuring that victims and their families receive timely justice.
He commended all stakeholders involved in the matter for their professionalism and commitment, stressing that the outcome could serve as an encouraging example of how coordinated action can strengthen public confidence in the justice system.
Omoigui particularly commended Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Edo State Government for what he described as sustained efforts to confront kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes across the state.
According to him, the establishment and support of the Special Court for offences of this nature represent an important step towards strengthening Edo State’s security and justice architecture.
He urged the state government to sustain and strengthen such initiatives in the interest of the people of Edo State.
The NBA chairman also praised the security agencies for their prompt response and investigative efforts following the Vegetable Market incident, noting that effective collaboration between law enforcement and the justice system remained critical to tackling violent crime.
He reserved particular commendation for the Special Court for its expeditious handling and determination of the case.
Omoigui said the court’s conduct demonstrated that serious criminal matters could be concluded within a reasonable time without compromising the constitutional right of accused persons to a fair hearing.
He also commended the prosecution and defence counsel, members of the Lion Bar, for their professionalism, diligence and commitment throughout the proceedings.
He noted that while the prosecution presented its case with clarity and focus, defence counsel diligently protected the constitutional rights of the accused persons, describing their conduct as reflective of the highest traditions of the legal profession.
While applauding the Special Court, the NBA Benin Branch chairman called on the Edo State Judiciary to extend effective case-management practices to other matters before the courts.
He urged stakeholders to reduce unnecessary adjournments and ensure that court processes are filed and served promptly so that cases can proceed whenever they are ripe for hearing.
“This is not a call for justice to be rushed. It is a call for justice to be delivered efficiently, fairly and without avoidable delay,” Omoigui said.
He said the case offered an important lesson on how the justice system could respond effectively to security challenges when all stakeholders performed their constitutional and professional responsibilities with commitment and cooperation.
The NBA Benin Branch, he added, remained committed to the rule of law, judicial independence, protection of fundamental rights and collective efforts aimed at making Edo State safer.
Omoigui concluded by calling on the government, judiciary, security agencies and members of the legal profession to sustain their collaboration to ensure that justice is delivered promptly, fairly and in accordance with the law.
