Edo NBA urges wider use of speedy criminal trials

The Benin branch of the Nigerian Bar Association has urged Edo State’s judiciary to apply the speedy-trial approach used by the Benin Special Court to other criminal cases in the state. The branch chairman, Omorodion Omoigui, made the call in Benin while responding to the judgment delivered in a kidnapping case heard by the special court. The case concerned an incident at the Benin Vegetable Market on June 14, 2026.

The Edo State Government established the special criminal court to try kidnapping and cult-related cases. It began operating on July 1, 2026. Omoigui said the NBA was not advocating that justice should be rushed.

Rather, he said cases should be concluded efficiently, fairly and without unnecessary delay. He argued that the proceedings showed that speed and due process could operate together while protecting the rights of all parties. According to the branch chairman, the case also demonstrated the importance of cooperation among the executive, security agencies, judiciary and legal profession.

He said coordinated performance of their constitutional and professional responsibilities could enable the justice system to respond effectively to security challenges. Omoigui called on stakeholders to maintain that cooperation and ensure that justice was delivered promptly, lawfully and fairly. He commended the parties involved in the special court’s work for helping to produce what he described as a timely response.

The NBA chairman also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence and the protection of fundamental rights. He said the legal profession would continue to support collective efforts to make Edo safer, while insisting that any expansion of expedited proceedings must remain consistent with lawful procedure.