The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Gombe Branch, has strongly condemned the sudden closure of the Court of Appeal, Gombe Division, and the transfer of all pending appeals to the newly created Maiduguri Division in Borno State, citing grave security concerns and procedural injustice.

In a communiqué signed by Benjamin Sati, Esq. MCIArb (UK), Chairman, and Abdulmutallib Babawuro, Esq., Secretary, the NBA Gombe Branch raised its concerns following an emergency virtual meeting held on May 13, 2025. The meeting had a singular focus: addressing the implications of the relocation of appellate matters from Gombe to Maiduguri despite the absence of any reported security threats in Gombe.

“The branch has written to the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the Chairperson of the National Judicial Council (NJC), seeking intervention and a reconsideration of the decision to shut down the Gombe Division, which has been operational since 2020 and remains structurally and institutionally sound,” the statement read.

While not opposing the establishment of the Maiduguri Division, the branch questioned the rationale behind relocating all cases—especially in light of renewed security concerns in Borno State, including recent warnings by the state’s Governor regarding a resurgence of Boko Haram activities.

The association presented verifiable data showing that Gombe State has the highest number of pending appeals and motions among the three states—Gombe, Yobe, and Borno—served by the now-closed Division. As of the latest records:

  • Appeals: Gombe – 88; Borno – 23; Yobe – 6
  • Motions: Gombe – 41; Borno – 30; Yobe – 6

“These figures, available at the court’s registry, clearly illustrate that Gombe is the hub of judicial activity in the region. The sudden shutdown without cogent justification undermines access to justice and exposes litigants and lawyers to serious security risks,” the statement said.

The NBA Gombe Branch also highlighted the significant infrastructure investments made in the Division, including purpose-built offices, staff quarters, and residential housing for Justices—all courtesy of the Gombe State Government and the Court of Appeal headquarters.

In response to the developments, the branch announced its decision to boycott sittings of the Court of Appeal in Maiduguri, citing the dangerous travel route between Gombe and Maiduguri as a major concern.

“We urge the relevant authorities to reconsider and reopen the Gombe Division in the interest of justice, efficiency, and safety,” the branch declared.

Furthermore, the NBA called on the Executive Governor of Gombe State to intervene and continue supporting federal institutions in the state. It also commended the NJC for ongoing judicial reforms and encouraged all stakeholders to uphold fairness and integrity in the justice sector.

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