Reopen FHC, Court Of Appeal In Anambra – NBA President, Osigwe

The President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, has called for the reopening of the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal division in Anambra State.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) said while the courts were closed for security threats, there is an urgent need to reopen the courts. He stated that access to these courts is vital, and securing “our judicial staff and court facilities must be a top priority.”

Afam Osigwe made the call on Friday while speaking at the 2024 Opening of the Legal Year for the Anambra State Judiciary.

He expressed the commitment of the NBA to upholding a judiciary that remains firm in delivering justice fairly and without compromise. “In challenging times, we must stay steadfast in this duty, as justice remains the foundation of every thriving society,” he said.

He enjoined the Anambra State Judiciary to embrace technology as an essential tool for improving access to justice, stating “we can make the judicial process more efficient, transparent, and accessible to all citizens, ensuring that justice is both timely and fair. In today’s digital world, technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity for an effective and sustainable justice system“.

Osigwe urged the Chief Judge of Anambra State, along with heads of courts, to ensure regular visits to detention facilities and prisons across the state, in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

“This measure is crucial for reviewing the status of detainees, facilitating the immediate release of those held without just cause, and preventing undue incarceration,” he added.