Justice Daniel Okungbowa, the Chief Judge of Edo State, has officially inaugurated a specialized tribunal focused on adjudicating cases of kidnapping and cult-related activities. According to a June 25, 2026 announcement from Chief Registrar B.O. Osawaru, this new judicial body, designated as Special Criminal Court 1, will begin operations on July 1, 2026, within Benin City.
This initiative follows a direct appeal from Governor Monday Okpebholo, who formally requested the court’s establishment on June 19, 2026. The Governor’s move is a proactive step toward fulfilling his pledge to address rising criminal threats after a public parade of suspects conducted by Police Commissioner Monday Agbonika. Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, confirmed that the administration is focused on removing these criminal elements and improving the efficiency of the state’s justice system. Under the new mandate, the Chief Judge has been tasked with appointing appropriate judicial officers to preside over the proceedings of this court.
