The House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory Judiciary has embarked on a mission to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of justice within the FCT. This commitment is manifested in their pledge to utilize legislative tools to ensure the swift dispensation of justice, a cornerstone of a fair and equitable society. This endeavor is not merely an abstract pursuit but is grounded in the practical reality of ensuring that citizens have faith in the legal system and do not resort to self-help or extrajudicial means to resolve disputes. The committee recognizes that timely justice is not only a right but also a deterrent against societal unrest, promoting stability and order within the FCT.
Central to this initiative is a public hearing convened by the committee, focusing on two pivotal pieces of legislation. The first seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to increase the number of judges in the FCT. This is a critical step towards addressing the backlog of cases that often plagues judicial systems. An increased judicial workforce will allow for a more efficient allocation of resources and expedite the handling of cases, reducing delays and ensuring that justice is served promptly. The second bill addresses the establishment of lower courts within the FCT, granting them jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters. This is a crucial move towards decentralizing the judicial system and making it more accessible to the local population. By bringing justice closer to the people, these lower courts will reduce the burden on higher courts and facilitate more timely resolutions to disputes.
The chairman of the committee, Adamu Gamawa, articulated the vision driving this legislative effort: ensuring that access to justice becomes a readily available and affordable reality for all residents of the FCT. The committee’s commitment stems from the belief that timely and accessible justice is not a privilege but a fundamental right. This resonates with the overarching goal of discouraging vigilantism and promoting respect for the rule of law. Gamawa emphasized the direct link between a strengthened judiciary and a reduction in protracted legal proceedings, recognizing the fundamental principle that justice delayed is justice denied. A robust and efficient judicial system is essential for upholding the rule of law and maintaining societal order.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, underscored the importance of the public hearing, emphasizing its role in raising awareness about the urgent need for judicial improvements within the FCT. Recognizing the significance of public engagement in the legislative process, the Speaker affirmed the 10th House’s commitment, under his leadership, to championing the rule of law and the effective administration of justice. This underscores the legislature’s dedication to fostering a transparent and accountable judicial system that serves the interests of the people. The Speaker’s commitment reflects a broader understanding of the vital role of the judiciary in a democratic society, ensuring that the principles of fairness and justice are upheld.
Further solidifying the importance of these proposed legislative changes, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, voiced the organization’s strong support for the bills. The NBA’s endorsement reinforces the widespread recognition of the need for judicial reform within the FCT. The legal profession, as represented by the NBA, understands the critical role of a well-functioning judiciary in safeguarding the rights of citizens and upholding the rule of law. Their support adds significant weight to the legislative initiatives, highlighting the consensus within the legal community regarding the importance of these reforms.
In essence, these proposed legislative amendments represent a significant step towards strengthening the judicial system within the FCT. By increasing the number of judges and establishing lower courts, the House of Representatives aims to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of justice for all residents. This commitment to timely and affordable justice is not only vital for upholding the rule of law but also for fostering trust in the legal system and promoting societal harmony. The support from key stakeholders like the Speaker of the House and the Nigerian Bar Association further emphasizes the importance and potential impact of these legislative reforms. Ultimately, these efforts are geared towards creating a more just and equitable society within the FCT, where all citizens have equal access to a fair and efficient judicial process.
