Government raises magistrates retirement age
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, signed two key bills into law, introducing significant changes to the state’s judiciary and oil sector.
The first bill raises the retirement age for magistrates in the state from 60 to 65 years.
In a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the move is aimed at enhancing the efficiency and experience of the judiciary by allowing seasoned magistrates to serve longer, thereby improving the administration of justice in the State.
Okpebholo said, “I emphasise that these legislative actions align with the state’s vision of enhancing judicial integrity and optimising the benefits of its natural resources for the people of Edo State.”
In another move, the governor assented to a bill that increases the number of members of the state’s oil agency.
The expansion, according to the statement, is expected to improve governance, representation, and operational efficiency within the agency, ensuring better management of the state’s oil resources and fostering economic growth.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions that drive justice and economic development.
“The newly-signed bills are expected to take immediate effect, with relevant stakeholders expressing optimism about their potential impacts on governance and service delivery in the state,” the statement concluded.
