The Owerri branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a stern warning concerning the structural integrity of the Justice Oputa High Court building in Imo State, urging a one-week suspension of all court activities due to safety concerns. The call, made by the branch chairman, Barrister Chris Ihentuge, comes amidst growing anxieties among lawyers and litigants about persistent vibrations felt within the court building during proceedings. These vibrations, described by some as alarming, have raised fears of a potential structural collapse, prompting the NBA’s proactive stance to prioritize the safety of all court users. The concerns extend beyond mere vibrations, encompassing broader issues of inadequate lighting, ventilation, and overall functionality within the court premises.
Barrister Ihentuge’s address to colleagues and litigants painted a stark picture of a building riddled with structural deficiencies. He highlighted reports from judges who experienced the unsettling vibrations firsthand, corroborating concerns that have lingered since the building’s construction under the previous administration of Governor Rochas Okorocha. Despite earlier complaints about potential structural defects, no remedial action appears to have been taken, leaving the building’s occupants in a precarious situation. The NBA chairman emphasized that the continued use of the building poses an unacceptable risk to the lives of lawyers, judges, litigants, and court staff, stressing the urgent need for a professional assessment of the structure’s stability before any further activities are conducted within its walls.
The one-week suspension proposed by the NBA is intended to allow time for a thorough inspection of the building by qualified experts. This assessment is crucial for determining whether the structure is indeed safe for continued use or requires significant repairs and renovations. Barrister Ihentuge underscored the NBA’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of its members and the wider legal community, urging all stakeholders to heed the warning and refrain from using the building until its safety can be unequivocally confirmed. This proactive measure reflects the gravity of the situation and the NBA’s determination to prevent any potential tragedy stemming from the building’s alleged structural instability.
Adding to the existing concerns about the court building, Barrister Ihentuge also highlighted the protracted absence of a Chief Judge in Imo State. This leadership vacuum, now stretching into its third month, is seen as a contributing factor to the current challenges facing the Imo judiciary. The NBA chairman argued that the lack of a Chief Judge hinders effective management and oversight, exacerbating existing problems and preventing the timely resolution of critical issues like the safety concerns surrounding the Justice Oputa High Court. The call for the appointment of a Chief Judge resonates with the broader need for effective leadership and accountability within the Imo State judicial system.
The ongoing situation at the Justice Oputa High Court brings to light wider concerns about the state of public infrastructure in Imo State. Allegations have emerged suggesting that the building was originally designed as a hotel but was later repurposed as a courthouse, potentially explaining its unsuitability for judicial functions. The reported lack of proper ventilation, persistent darkness, and the necessity of using torchlight to navigate stairwells during daylight hours all point to significant deficiencies in the building’s design and maintenance. These issues raise questions about the due diligence undertaken during the building’s conversion and the oversight of its ongoing maintenance.
The NBA’s call for a temporary suspension of activities at the Justice Oputa High Court represents a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all court users. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of investing in safe and functional public infrastructure and ensuring proper oversight of construction and maintenance processes. The ongoing situation underscores the critical need for accountability and transparency in the management of public resources, emphasizing the vital role of a functioning judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. The lack of a Chief Judge further compounds the existing problems, hindering the ability of the judiciary to address these critical issues and provide the necessary leadership and direction. The call for an appointment is not simply a procedural matter but a fundamental requirement for a functional and effective justice system in Imo State. The situation demands prompt action from relevant authorities to address these concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of all stakeholders involved in the judicial process while restoring public confidence in the integrity of the judicial system.
