The Edo High Court of Justice will begin a Special Criminal Court to expedite trials of offences relating to cultism and kidnapping in July.

This announcement is contained in a statement signed by the Court’s Chief Registrar, Benson Osawaru on Friday in Benin.

According to the registrar, the court designated Special Criminal Court was constituted on the request of Gov. Monday Okpebholo.

He noted that the new court would handle cases of cultism, kidnapping, and other matters assigned by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.

“The move is expected to address the rising cases of cult-related violence and abductions across the state by ensuring speedy dispensation of justice and serving as a deterrent to perpetrators.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the governor on June 18, during the parade of suspected kidnappers and cultists at the Police Command Headquarters in Benin, announced that Edo will establish a Special Criminal Court to fast track litigations on special criminal offences. (NAN)