A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Godwin Obaseki, the Governor of Edo State, to explain why he has not sworn in eight Judges-designate recommended for appointment to the Edo State High Court since June 2023.

The order came in response to a lawsuit filed by Adaze Emwanta against the Governor, the state Attorney General, and the National Judicial Council.

The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/1634/2023, sought to compel the Governor to fulfill his constitutional duty and swear in the Judges-designate.

Justice O. A. Egwuatu, who presided over the case, ruled that the Governor must show cause why the reliefs sought by the applicant should not be granted. This means the Governor must provide a legal justification for his delay in swearing in the Judges-designate.

The NJC, the body responsible for recommending judges for appointment, had approved the eight candidates in June 2023.

The Governor is expected to respond to the court’s order and provide an explanation for his delay in swearing in the Judges-designate.