A legal suit has been filed at the Federal High Court in Benin City challenging the appointments made to the executive management of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA)
The claimants, led by Pastor Amadin Owas and others representing the Benin National Congress, allege that these appointments violate the Federal Character Commission Act and the 1999 Constitution by failing to include representation from the Edo South Senatorial District.
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The plaintiffs argue that the appointments of Hon.
Mike Ohio Ezomo and Hon. Johnson Oghuma, both from the Edo North Senatorial District, marginalize the Benin people, despite the fact that their region is home to the authority’s headquarters and possesses qualified candidates.
The case has gained additional significance due to letters from His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Ewuare II of Benin, who on 7 November 2023, recommended Engr.
Ogieva Charles Osarobo for the Managing Director position.
In the letter, the King expressed his strong support for Engr. Osarobo, emphasizing his qualifications, years of service, and suitability for the role.
This letter, addressed to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources, 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 marginalization of the Benin people.
Benin National Congress Stands Firm on Oba of Benin’s Recommendation for BORBDA Leadership
The Benin National Congress (BNC) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the recommendation of His Royal Majesty, The Oba of Benin, regarding the leadership of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA).
In a letter addressed to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. (Prof.) Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the BNC expressed concerns about the ongoing marginalization of the Benin people in key leadership positions within the agency.
The letter, dated June 17, 2024, referenced an earlier communication from the Oba of Benin, dated November 7, 2023, which was officially acknowledged by the ministry on November 16, 2023.
The BNC pointed out 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 letter emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to national peace and harmony, urging him to uphold the principles of fairness and federal representation in the appointment process. The BNC also stated that the Benin people should not be held responsible for any consequences arising from their perceived marginalization.
The letter was signed by the President of the Benin National Congress Worldwide, and Pastor Amadin Owas.
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.
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