*Urges Lawyers To Master Court Rules For Efficient Justice Delivery
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The Court of Appeal of Nigeria has commenced the 2025 legal year with special sittings across its various Divisions, aimed at addressing the growing caseload and ensuring faster justice delivery.
In a special sitting in Enugu on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem CFR, welcomed legal practitioners and stakeholders to the new legal year, emphasizing her deep connection to Enugu State, where she previously served in 2003 and 2019.
Justice Dongban-Mensem highlighted the importance of the special sittings, noting that the goal is to decongest the Division’s docket and address pending appeals swiftly.
“Having worked here, I know the volume of work in the Division, and I understand the weight Enugu State carries as a commercial hub in Nigeria. This sitting aims to ensure that matters are heard and determined promptly so businesses and individuals can feel the presence of justice close to home,” she said.
The President revealed that 80 appeals are listed for hearing and determination during the four-day special sitting, urging lawyers and litigants to make the most of the opportunity for quick resolutions.
She also emphasized the importance of reducing conflicting judgments, explaining that the conference process—where Justices deliberate extensively on cases—will be rigorously enforced under the direction of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun GCFR.
“This approach ensures consistency in our judgments and reinforces public confidence in the judiciary,” she added.
The Attorney General of Enugu State, Kingsley Udeh, expressed gratitude to the Court of Appeal for its commitment to enhancing the justice system in the state.
He noted significant impacts of the special sitting, including:
- Resumption of Monday court sittings after a four-year hiatus due to security concerns.
- Decongestion of the court docket, which will help resolve long-standing legal disputes.
- Enhanced legal precedents, as more decisions from the court will contribute to the development of Nigerian jurisprudence.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. This special sitting will not only deliver justice but ensure it is done swiftly and transparently,” Udeh stated.
He also highlighted how decisions from the Court of Appeal will serve as essential references for lawyers aspiring to attain the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Justice Dongban-Mensem urged lawyers to familiarize themselves with the Court of Appeal rules, emphasizing the need for professionalism and efficiency in legal practice.
“Counsel must ensure they are well-prepared before stepping into the courtroom. Familiarity with court rules makes proceedings smoother and aids in delivering justice efficiently,” she advised.
Both the Court of Appeal President and the Attorney General expressed optimism that the special sittings will set a positive tone for the year, fostering trust, efficiency, and unity within the justice system.
The Enugu special sitting is expected to serve as a model for similar sessions across other Divisions of the Court of Appeal nationwide, marking a strong beginning for Nigeria’s legal landscape in 2025.
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