By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s lingering issue of delayed justice delivery.
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion tittled, “The need to review Nigeria’s justice and judiciary system in order to restore public trust in the judiciary and address the delay in providing justice“sponsored by Hon. Ganiyu Adele Ayuba.
The House emphasized the judiciary’s primary responsibility: prompt dispensation of justice and interpretation of laws enacted by the legislature. Judicial powers are vested in various courts established by the Constitution, National Assembly Acts, and State Houses of Assembly laws.
Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees fair hearing, including prompt determination of civil rights and obligations within a reasonable time. However, delays in the judicial system have raised concerns, eroding public trust.
In some states, trial court cases drag on for four to five years, affecting long-term detentions, chieftaincy disputes, and unresolved commercial litigation. This hinders democratic and economic progress.
The House worries that if immediate action is not taken, public confidence in the court system may be irreparably damaged. This could lead to people taking the law into their own hands.
To address these challenges, the House mandated its Committee on Constitutional Review to find lasting solutions. Key areas for review include prompt dispensation of justice, judicial reforms, electoral reforms, and access to justice.
The Committee on Constitutional Review has four weeks to submit its report, paving the way for further legislative action. This move demonstrates the House’s commitment to restoring public trust and ensuring timely justice.
By addressing delays in justice delivery, the House aims to promote democratic and economic progress, ultimately strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.
