Edo issues warning over plans to disrupt court proceedings

The Edo State Government, on Saturday, condemned social media posts urging people to disrupt the operations of the Benin High Court on Monday.

The court, which will be presided over by Justice Peter Akhihiero, will resume hearing the case by suspended Enigie (Dukes) led by Duke of Evbuobanosa and Egbaen Siluko dukedoms in Benin kingdom, Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Chief Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen, challenging their suspension from office by the Oba.

At the last hearing on May 9, over 100 priests, priestesses and palace chiefs stormed the High Court chanting curses against the enemies of the Oba.

Two suspended Enigie (Dukes) of Evbuobanosa and Egbaen Siluko Dukedoms in Benin Kingdom, Prof Gregory Akenzua and Chief Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen had on behalf of some others, sued the monarch at Edo State High Court, challenging their suspension from offices.

In a statement by the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said, “The Edo State Government hereby condemns in the strongest terms the recent posts circulating on social media platforms inciting and urging people to disrupt the operations of the Benin High Court on Monday, July 15.

“It is highly disconcerting that there have been attempts to interfere with the judicial process through threats and displays aimed at inciting public unrest.

“It is imperative to emphasize that the rule of law must prevail, and all arms of government must be allowed to carry out their functions without fear of intimidation or disruption. The sanctity of our institutions must be upheld at all times.

“The government is aware that some unscrupulous politicians are behind the plan to sponsor violence with the aim of disrupting the peace in the State to score cheap political points.

“We call on youths in the state not to allow themselves to be used to perpetuate violence and cause crisis in the State.

“We also call on parents to protect their children from being exploited by persons who want to disrupt peace for political gains.”

Nehikhare said the state government will punish any individual or group found to be involved in activities that undermine the peace in the State.

“The Edo State Government will take all lawful actions against any individual or group found to be involved in activities that undermine the peace in the State.

“We urge all law-abiding citizens to reject and ignore any calls to disrupt the peace in the State and to refrain from engaging in any actions that could jeopardize public order. It is only through respect for the law and due process that we can ensure a just and orderly society for all.

“It is, therefore, in the best interest of all law-abiding citizens of our dear state that we enjoin everyone to join hands with the government in safeguarding the integrity of our institutions and preserving the peace and harmony of our beloved Edo State,” he added.