By Muhammad Mamman
The Edo State Ministry of Justice has recorded a total of 35 court victories—comprising 13 criminal convictions and 22 favourable civil judgments—within the past seven months, according to the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Samson Osagie.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday in Benin City, Mr Osagie highlighted the ministry’s strides across various departments, describing the achievements as a testament to its dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting the state’s legal interests.
According to the commissioner, the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) secured 13 criminal convictions involving a range of sentences, including imprisonment and capital punishment. In addition, appellate courts upheld 10 criminal appeals filed by the department.
“The DPP is currently prosecuting over 2,000 active criminal cases. In the past seven months alone, it has received 441 case files from the police and issued legal opinions on 341 of them. It has also filed 241 additional cases, excluding matters related to rape and defilement—of which 87 separate cases have been filed,” he stated.
On the civil front, the ministry defended the state in over 253 ongoing civil suits across various high courts, securing 22 favourable judgments in cases involving employment disputes, contractual claims, and land matters. Some cases were amicably resolved through consent judgments.
Mr Osagie also noted the ministry’s legislative contributions, which included drafting and reviewing key policy documents such as the Edo State Parks and Agency Bill and the Edo State Lottery Commission Bill.
In the area of traditional leadership, the ministry has intervened in more than 27 chieftaincy matters, providing legal opinions and mediation services to resolve disputes.
The Department of Citizens’ Rights concluded 101 cases, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding human rights. Meanwhile, the Citizens’ Mediation Centre successfully resolved 50 disputes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Mr Osagie praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his administration’s unwavering support of the ministry’s work, noting that the government remains committed to ensuring justice delivery in the state remains swift, fair, and unimpeded.
