Edo judiciary, authorized practitioners again Okpebholo, unite to battle cultism

The Edo judiciary and legal practitioners have pledged their full support for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s ongoing efforts to combat cultism and kidnapping.

This unified stance was evident during a high-level meeting at the Government House in Benin on Tuesday.

Okpebholo, in his address at the meeting, stressed the importance of a collaborative approach between the executive and the judiciary, describing their relationship as “very cordial.”

He expressed appreciation for the judiciary’s responsiveness and swift legal advice, which has facilitated his administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to fighting cultism and kidnapping, emphasising that these crimes pose a significant threat to the state’s economic development.

He called for continued cooperation from the judiciary in enforcing law and order, stating: “We must bring these crimes down to the barest minimum so we can feel safe again, our children can invest here, and their investments will be protected.”

This call to action follows recent legislative reforms, including the enactment of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025, and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law 2025.

These laws impose strict penalties for cult-related activities and kidnapping, including mandatory jail terms and, in severe cases, the death penalty.

To enhance the judiciary’s capacity to deliver justice effectively, Okpebholo pledged his administration’s support for addressing key institutional needs, such as recruiting additional judicial staff.

This commitment followed a briefing from the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, on the judiciary’s staffing challenges, which have been exacerbated by professionals seeking opportunities abroad.

Governor Okpebholo responded positively, acknowledging the urgent need to equip the judiciary with adequate human resources to ensure the effective prosecution of cases related to insecurity, NAN reports.