Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has formally asked Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa to establish a special court dedicated to prosecuting cultism and kidnapping offenses. The request was detailed in an official letter dated June 19, 2026, which was signed by Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.
The administration aims to expedite the legal process for these specific crimes, reflecting the governor’s goal to improve criminal justice efficiency. In the correspondence, the state government suggested the appointment of three judges, though it left the final number to the discretion of the Chief Judge.
This formal request follows a public announcement made by the governor on June 18, 2026, at the Edo State Police Command. During that event, he promised to implement rapid trials for suspects, proposing a maximum duration of three weeks per case. Furthermore, he declared his intention to sign death warrants for any individuals convicted by this court, reinforcing his stance against the rising security threats in the state.
