A Nigerian Supreme Court Justice previously accused of corruption by Nigeria’s State Security Service (SSS), was seen loitering at the Protea Hotel in Benin, Edo State’s capital, on Thursday night. The sighting has sparked controversy as opposition parties gear up to challenge the 2024 Edo governorship election results at the Supreme Court, where Monday Okpebholo of the All-Progressives Congress (APC) was declared the winner.
A video obtained by The Peoples Gazette captured a man resembling the supreme court justice at the hotel, with Supreme Court sources later confirming his identity. The judge’s presence in Benin has raised suspicions, particularly as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepares to file an appeal contesting Okpebholo’s victory.
Chidi Odinkalu, a prominent rights lawyer specialising in judicial corruption, alleged on X that the judge was in Benin to meet Edo State’s Attorney-General. The timing of the alleged meeting has fuelled public concern, given the impending Supreme Court case.
The Justice has been a polarizing figure since his arrest in October 2016 during a nationwide SSS raid targeting judicial officials over corruption allegations. SSS agents reportedly found large sums of U.S. dollars at his residence, which the agency claimed were proceeds from compromised cases. The justice denied the allegations, asserting the money was unconnected to illicit activities. Following a discreet agreement with then-President Muhammadu Buhari, he was allowed to remain on the bench.
As the PDP prepares its appeal, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court to deliver a transparent and fair ruling.
The Peoples Gazette contributed to this report. Peoples Gazette
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