The Supreme Court has dismissed social media claims that one of its justices visited Benin City to influence a political case.
In a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Dr Festus Akande, the court said the justice was there on 12 June solely to attend funeral rites for the mother of senior lawyer Hannibal Uwaifo.
The statement clarified the visit had prior approval from the Chief Justice and the said Justice did not attend any political meeting or lobby for a place on any case panel, contrary to what was alleged.
It further addressed an image being circulated online as supposed evidence, stating that it simply showed the Justice returning alone to his hotel — not proof of any impropriety.
The judiciary warned against spreading unverified reports that could damage public trust in the legal system.
“The judiciary remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will not be distracted by deliberate attempts to undermine its credibility,” the statement concluded, urging the public and commentators to verify facts through official channels before spreading unconfirmed reports.
The Judge Under Scrutiny
Although the statement did not give a name, Supreme Court Justice John Okoro was seen at a Benin hotel on Thursday.
His visit to the state comes as opposition parties prepare to challenge Edo’s governorship election results at the apex court, according to sources.
The Gazette, reporting based on an exclusive video obtained, showed the judge at Protea Hotel, with rights lawyer Chidi Odinkalu alleging Okoro met Edo’s Attorney-General Samson Osagie – a claim Osagie strongly denied. The sighting raised eyebrows given pending election petitions.
Okoro, previously arrested in 2016 anti-corruption raids but cleared, didn’t respond to requests for comment.