Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially relieved Barr. Samson Osagie of his position as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

The governor, in a minor cabinet reshuffle announced on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, appointed Professor Roland Itoya Otaru (SAN) — one of the newly sworn-in commissioners — as Osagie’s replacement.

This marks a significant change within the state’s legal and political landscape, signaling what many describe as Okpebholo’s renewed push for administrative discipline and efficiency.

A Sudden Change After Previous Reinstatement

The dismissal of Samson Osagie comes months after he was suspended and later reinstated earlier in the year.

Governor Okpebholo had first suspended Osagie in February 2025 over allegations of official and financial misconduct, prompting the establishment of an investigative panel to review the claims.

Thirty-seven days later, in March 2025, Osagie was reinstated after the panel reportedly found no evidence of financial wrongdoing.

A government letter dated March 12, 2025, signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., conveyed the governor’s directive for Osagie’s return to office.

The letter stated:
“Having considered the report of the Investigative Panel set up by the Government to investigate allegations of financial infractions reported against you, which has exonerated you from the said allegations, I write to convey the directive of the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, that you resume duties as the State Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice with effect from 12th March, 2025.”

However, in what political observers describe as a strategic but quiet reshuffle, the governor has now dropped Osagie from the State Executive Council entirely, naming Professor Otaru as the new chief legal officer of the state.

Who Is Professor Roland Itoya Otaru?

Professor Roland Itoya Otaru, who now assumes office as Edo’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, is a seasoned legal practitioner, academic, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

He brings decades of experience in constitutional law, civil rights, and governance to the role. Known for his scholarly contributions and advocacy for judicial reforms, Otaru’s appointment has been described as a “merit-based decision” aimed at strengthening Edo’s justice system.

Sources close to the governor reveal that Okpebholo has high expectations of the new Attorney General, particularly in streamlining the state’s legal processes, improving judicial accountability, and ensuring transparent administration of justice.

“The governor is committed to building a results-driven cabinet,” a senior government aide said.
“Professor Otaru’s appointment reflects that vision — a focus on competence, integrity, and professionalism.”

Political Context and Public Reaction

The decision to replace Osagie has generated mixed reactions within Edo’s political circles. While some see it as a routine administrative adjustment, others view it as a signal of stricter performance standards under Okpebholo’s leadership.

Observers note that this move may also be part of a broader effort to restructure key ministries and inject new energy into the state’s legal affairs, especially ahead of upcoming political and governance milestones.

In recent months, Governor Okpebholo has made headlines for implementing sweeping reforms — from tightening transparency measures in land administration to reshuffling strategic ministries to improve service delivery.

The replacement of the Attorney General appears to be the latest step in his ongoing effort to reposition the Edo State Executive Council for greater efficiency.

A New Direction for Edo’s Justice Ministry

Legal analysts believe that Professor Otaru’s appointment could signal a shift toward institutional modernization within the Ministry of Justice.

With a background that blends academic insight and legal practice, Otaru is expected to focus on policy-driven justice delivery, alternative dispute resolution frameworks, and legal support for the state’s development agenda.

Governor Okpebholo, on his part, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to accountability, rule of law, and service-driven governance, values he says will guide all future cabinet appointments and dismissals.