A group, the Benin National Congress Worldwide has dragged the Federal Government before the Federal High Court in Benin City over recent appointments made to the executive management of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA).
According to its vice president, Pastor Amadin Owas, the group stands firm on Oba of Benin’s recommendation for BORBDA leadership.
Owas maintained that the FG violated the Federal Character Commission Act and the 1999 Constitution by appointing Hon. Mike Ohio Ezomo and Hon. Johnson Oghuma, both from the Edo North Senatorial District to lead BORBDA.
Alleging that the Edo South Senatorial District is being marginalised, the group upheld the recommendation of Engr. Ogieva Charles Osarobo for the Managing Director position of BORBDA by His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Ewuare II of Benin.
In a letter dated 7 November 2023, the monarch expressed his strong support for Engr. Osarobo, emphasising his qualifications, years of service, and suitability for the role.
This letter, addressed to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources, Engr. (Prof.) Joseph Terlumun Utsev, was accompanied by a follow-up reminder sent in June and September 2024, reiterating the palace’s endorsement of Engr. Osarobo and highlighting the alleged 42-year marginalisation of the Benin people.
On its part, the BNC asserted that certain political figures from Edo State, outside the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, were attempting to impose a non-native leader on the agency, even though BORBDA is headquartered in the Edo South Senatorial District. The organization warned that any effort to undermine the Oba of Benin’s recommendation could result in civil unrest.
The BNC reiterated its belief that Engr. Ogieva Charles Osarobo is the most suitable candidate for the role of Managing Director at BORBDA, based on his experience and qualifications.
The legal battle over BORBDA’s leadership continues, with growing public support for the Oba of Benin’s recommendation. The court proceedings scheduled for February 2025 are anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the fight for equitable representation in federal appointments.
The case, filed under suit number FHC/B/CS/4/2025, is being presided over by Hon. Justice C.A. Obiozor at the Federal High Court 2, Benin Division. The first hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
The claimants have requested an injunction to restrain the contested appointees from assuming their roles.
The Benin National Congress is also asking the court to reconstitute the management team to ensure equitable representation from Edo South and to enforce constitutional provisions guaranteeing fair appointments that reflect Nigeria’s federal character.
The court documents include evidence of prior correspondence and public outcry, along with statements from professional bodies questioning the qualifications of the current appointees.
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and other defendants have been given 30 days to respond to the summons.
