By Paul Okojie
Benin City-The suspension of Hon. Samson Osagie, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, sent shockwaves through the political and legal circles of the state. It had all started three months earlier when allegations of financial infractions surfaced against him. The accusations, though vague at first, quickly gained traction, leading to a formal investigation by a government-appointed investigative panel.
For Osagie, it was a trying period. A seasoned lawyer and public servant, he had always prided himself on his integrity. However, the accusations placed him under intense scrutiny. The media buzzed with speculation, and opposition voices within the state capital, Benin City, used the opportunity to question the administration’s handling of financial matters.
Governor Monday Okpebholor, determined to maintain transparency, made the difficult decision to suspend Osagie pending the outcome of the investigation. The announcement was met with mixed reactions. Some believed the move was necessary to uphold the integrity of the government, while others suspected political maneuvering behind the scenes.
During his suspension, Osagie remained defiant yet composed. He cooperated fully with the panel, providing all necessary documents and clarifications. His legal team worked tirelessly to dismantle the claims against him, pointing out inconsistencies in the accusations. Meanwhile, his supporters rallied, believing he had been wrongfully accused.
After months of investigation, the panel finally reached its conclusion—Osagie was exonerated of all financial misconduct. The report found no evidence linking him to any wrongdoing, paving the way for his reinstatement.
On March 12, 2025, a letter from the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, officially recalled Osagie to resume his duties as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. The document, bearing the state’s official insignia, reaffirmed his innocence and directed him to return to his post immediately.
His reinstatement marked a significant moment, not just for him but for the entire Edo State government. His return to office was met with cheers from his supporters and relief from those who had remained loyal to him. In his first public statement after resuming duty, Osagie expressed gratitude to the governor for ensuring due process was followed.
“I have always believed in the rule of law, and today, that belief has been reaffirmed,” he said, standing before reporters at the Ministry of Justice. “This experience has only strengthened my commitment to justice, accountability, and service to the people of Edo State.”
As he settled back into his role, one question remained—who had orchestrated the allegations against him? While Osagie chose not to dwell on the past, the events of his suspension had exposed deeper political undercurrents within the state. For now, though, he was back, ready to continue his work in the pursuit of justice.
