Edo Special Criminal Court: 74 Days, from Arraignment to Judgement
A wind of change is blowing through criminal justice delivery, in Edo State. Governor Monday Okpebholo met a troubling situation on ground which persisted – kidnappers and cultists operating freely
The Edo Special Criminal Court in Edo State has demonstrated remarkable efficiency in delivering justice. Established in July 2026 by Governor Monday Okpebholo to tackle kidnappings and cultism, the court swiftly processed its first case, convicting four suspects of serious offenses. The entire proceeding, from arraignment to judgement, was completed in 74 days – a significant reduction in time typically required for criminal trials.
The defendants, Marvellous Isaac, Wisdom Michael, Rufus Emete Michael, and Gift Raphael, were charged with kidnapping, conspiracy, armed robbery, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms. The prosecution relied on CCTV footage, firearms, and confessions to build their case, while the defendants pleaded not guilty and testified on their own behalf.
The court found all defendants guilty and sentenced them, with four receiving death sentences and one a life imprisonment. This swift and effective judicial process has received widespread approval from residents, who had long endured the reign of kidnappers and cultists.
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