The judiciary and legal practitioners in Edo State have declared their unwavering support for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s intensified campaign against cultism and kidnapping, aligning fully with the administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the State.
The declaration came during a high-level meeting held on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City, where Governor Okpebholo received the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, alongside a delegation of judges and legal officers.
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the need for a stronger synergy between the executive and judicial arms of government, describing their relationship as “very cordial” and instrumental to recent progress in the fight against insecurity.
“I appreciate the synergy we have enjoyed so far. I usually get quick and helpful responses whenever I seek legal advice,” the Governor noted. He further appealed to the judiciary for continuous collaboration, particularly in enforcing laws targeted at cultism and kidnapping, which he described as major impediments to economic development and investor confidence.
“There is a fight against cultism, and I am taking it very seriously. I need your cooperation. These crimes are a major setback to our economic development. We must bring them down to the barest minimum so we can feel safe again, our children can invest here, and their investments will be protected,” the Governor stated.
The meeting comes in the wake of recent legislative reforms introduced by the Okpebholo administration, including the signing of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025 and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025. These laws introduce stiff penalties such as: A 10-year jail term for anyone who harbors cultists; 21 years imprisonment for cultists who cause injury or property damage; and The death penalty for convicted kidnappers whose actions result in the death of a victim.
Governor Okpebholo also reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to support the judiciary through critical interventions, including the recruitment of additional staff to address manpower shortages affecting the swift dispensation of justice.
Responding to concerns raised by Chief Judge Okungbowa about the exodus of judicial personnel seeking opportunities abroad, the Governor pledged to work towards improving working conditions and boosting the operational capacity of the judiciary.
The Chief Judge, accompanied by fellow judges and senior judicial officers, expressed a united front with the executive to maintain law and order, enhance the rule of law, and ensure the safety of all Edo residents.
The meeting underscored a renewed and collective determination by the Edo State Government and the judiciary to tackle criminality head-on and create a safer, more stable society for all.
