Edo executive, judiciary locked in face-off over ₦6bn budget cut, court appointments

A growing face-off is unfolding between the Edo State Executive and the Judiciary over judicial appointments, budget allocations and the management of court infrastructure projects.

The disagreement is deepening tensions within the state’s justice sector.

The dispute, according to multiple judiciary sources, centres on alleged executive interference in judicial matters and a sharp reduction in the judiciary’s capital allocation.

—Budget slashed from ₦6bn to ₦300m—

Sources said the judiciary’s capital budget stood at about ₦6 billion under the previous administration.

It was reportedly reduced to ₦300 million in the current fiscal cycle, a development that has unsettled judicial officers.

The tension became more pronounced during a meeting of High Court judges held last Friday in Benin.

Judicial officers reportedly discussed recent developments affecting the administration of justice in the state.

Among the issues raised was the appointment of Justice Mary Asemota as Acting President of the Edo State Customary Court of Appeal.

The development has generated differing opinions within the judiciary.

–Control of court projects in dispute–

Sources said concerns were also expressed over the handling of judicial infrastructure projects by the executive arm.

This includes the ongoing rehabilitation of the High Court in Irrua, reportedly valued at about ₦500 million.

Some judges maintained that such projects had traditionally been coordinated through the judiciary and could be delivered more cost-effectively under its supervision.

Judicial officers were also reportedly cautioned against maintaining close ties with political actors to preserve the independence and integrity of the bench.

—Dialogue urged as swearing-in postponed—

Amid the growing tension, Justice Peter Akhihiero urged judicial officers to embrace dialogue with the state government.

He advocated setting up a delegation of senior judges to engage Governor Monday Okpebholo with a view to resolving the issues straining relations between both arms of government.

Justice Akhihiero also appealed to members of the judiciary to support Justice Asemota’s appointment, describing it as a positive step for the state’s justice system.

His intervention reportedly received support from a majority of judges present.

Justice Asemota appealed for peace and cooperation among stakeholders.

She urged collective efforts towards strengthening the Customary Court of Appeal.

Despite conciliatory moves, sources disclosed that some interests within the judiciary still oppose her eventual confirmation as substantive president and may challenge the process before the National Judicial Council.

The scheduled swearing-in of Justice Asemota by Governor Okpebholo on Monday was postponed indefinitely, though no official explanation was given.

–Legal battle continues–

Justice Efe Ikponwonba has also emerged as a prominent figure in the contest for leadership of the Customary Court of Appeal.

The dispute is further complicated by ongoing legal proceedings.

Sources said a suit challenging aspects of the appointment process was recently dismissed for lack of merit and locus standi, though an appeal has reportedly been filed.

When contacted, Chief Registrar of the Edo State High Court, Benson Osawaru, declined extensive comment. “I am not aware of the issues. I honestly advise that you speak with the Chief Judge,” he said.

Another senior judiciary source acknowledged elements of truth in the concerns. “Put your facts together and publish,” the source added.

[Rewritten story culled from ThisNigeria]