Edo State, Nigeria Establishes Special Criminal Court for Cultism and Kidnapping

The Edo State High Court, led by Chief Judge Justice Daniel Okungbowa, has constituted "Special Criminal Court 1" to try offences related to cultism, kidnapping and other serious crimes. The court will sit in Benin City and begin operations on 1 July 2026.

The court was created after Governor Monday Okpebholo formally requested a dedicated judicial mechanism in a letter dated 19 June 2026, signed by Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor. The move is part of the state’s broader effort to accelerate prosecutions, deter criminal gangs and restore public confidence in law‑enforcement and the justice system.