The much-publicised rollout of the mandatory electronic affidavit (e-affidavit) system by the Lagos State Judiciary is drawing mixed reactions just weeks after its implementation. While the initiative was hailed as a major step toward digital transformation in Nigeria’s justice sector, early feedback suggests the transition is far from seamless.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NBBSPIDEL.png")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
Promising reduced human contact, increased efficiency, and ease of access, the system was expected to modernize affidavit processing. However, legal practitioners and users say it is instead breeding confusion, increasing costs, and frustrating access to justice particularly for the elderly and physically challenged.
An experienced Lagos-based lawyer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the initiative as a “welcome development” in principle, but lamented that its practical application has fallen short.
“It’s a good thing, but it’s not working as it should,” he said. “There are still crowds at the court, the system still demands some human contact, and users are visibly frustrated. In other countries, you can complete everything remotely and receive receipts by email. Here, some still need to show up in person.”
He particularly emphasized the lack of accommodation for elderly or disabled persons, stating, “If an old man wants to depose to an affidavit, he shouldn’t be punished by the process. We need a justice system that is inclusive and does not discriminate by default.”
Court officials, too, are grappling with the impact of the change. One staff member noted that only affidavits related to litigation matters are now handled in person, with others moved online. But poor awareness and communication continue to cause confusion.
“There’s still poor sensitization,” the official admitted. “People still come here not knowing the system has changed.”
One affected user, who brought her elderly parent for verification after a previous instruction, recounted her ordeal.
“They asked me to bring my parent in March, but now everything has changed without any notice. I would have done it online and spared him the stress,” she said. “Even when I tried online, I faced difficulties because my parent can’t sign, only thumbprint. I had to seek help from court staff.”
Such technical and procedural bottlenecks are pushing some users toward alternative—and sometimes more expensive—routes. Mr. Mike, a court staff member, said many users who encounter online difficulties are now turning to notary publics, incurring extra costs.
“A young man came in today, couldn’t complete the online process, and eventually opted for a notary public. That’s more money spent. Even those who succeed online still have to print the affidavit themselves,” he added.
Worse still, touts have seized the opportunity to exploit vulnerable users. Outside the court premises, unauthorized agents reportedly charge as much as ₦10,000 to “assist” applicants with the new process.
“They say it’s more rigorous now, but really, the system is just not user-friendly enough for many people to go it alone,” a source revealed.
The anonymous legal practitioner urged immediate collaboration between the judiciary, bar, and other stakeholders to address the implementation gaps.
“If it works in other places, we can make it work here,” he said. “But we must listen to users, especially the vulnerable. Technology without empathy will only widen the justice gap.”
As Lagos Judiciary pushes forward with digital reforms, the key question remains: Will the e-affidavit system evolve to serve all users fairly, or simply replicate the same access problems in digital form?
The book also examines Nigeria's legal ecosystem, focusing on the LPELR and NBA AI Guidelines. As a bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE eBook titled: How to Use the AI Features in LegalPedia and LawPavilion.
Ohio Books Ltd praises the publication, stating:
"....this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic."
How to Order:
📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878
📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com
🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACIarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
______________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
