Oba tasks legal scholars on judicial integrity

BENIN CITY — The Oba of Benin, His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has urged legal scholars and practitioners in Nigeria and the diaspora to uphold judicial independence, integrity and truth in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The Oba gave the charge when members of the League of Luminaries, under the umbrella of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1984, paid a courtesy visit to the Benin Palace.

Oba Ewuare II urged members of the group to deploy their wealth of knowledge and experience to strengthen the Nigerian judiciary and preserve institutional memory, both in principle and practice.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the Oba described the judiciary as the bedrock of democracy and urged members of the legal profession to remain steadfast in upholding justice.

He said, “The judiciary is the bedrock of democracy. We can only pray and keep praying that the judiciary keeps waxing strong. We know that there are temptations, so may the Lord God Almighty and our ancestors not let anyone shake you. You will be strong.

“When you are giving your decisions, stand by the truth without fear or favour of anybody. Stand by the truth. I always like the truth. You cannot be perfect, but we should try as much as possible to stand by the truth. Be upright.

“The judiciary is the last hope of the common man, as they say. Please hold onto that strongly.”

The monarch also welcomed the delegation, describing its visit as an expression of respect for the Benin traditional institution and culture.

“This is amazing. You came without hesitation to express collaboration, respect for our culture, and for the ancient throne of Benin. In the name of my ancestors and Almighty God, we bless you,” he said.

The delegation comprised Nigerians in engineering, science, politics and other professions from across the country and the diaspora.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the group’s annual general meeting in Benin City, Adekunle Edeki, described Benin City as the cradle of Black civilisation, known in Benin as “Edorisiagbon”.

Edeki commended the Oba for what he described as his historic milestones and pledged the group’s collaboration with the palace ahead of the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary celebration in October.

He said the theme of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1984 reunion, “Re-union Royal 2026”, was inspired by the group’s appreciation of the rich heritage and enduring history of the Benin people.

Edeki said the group had chosen Benin City as the venue for its meeting after previously holding the gathering in Dallas, United States.

He said, “We decided that Benin City, which is the centre of the whole world, will be the next city to host our meeting after Dallas, United States. We are proud of the palace. We are so proud of our Oba. You will live long in good health.

“We must abide by the saying that Edorisiagbon—Benin is the centre of world civilisation. If you visit Benin and you have not visited the palace, you have only visited the periphery of Benin. It is in light of this that we feel we must come and pay homage to our royal father.”