🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian Senate advances bills to expand federal judiciary and introduce virtual court proceedings
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Nigerian Senate has initiated legislative steps to expand the federal judiciary by advancing two bills aimed at increasing the number of judges in the Federal High Court and justices in the Court of Appeal. This move addresses growing case backlogs and delays in justice administration. The bills, which passed a second reading, have been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for further review, with a report expected within four weeks. Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, highlighted the necessity of increasing Federal High Court judges due to the court's expanding responsibilities in areas like taxation, banking, anti-corruption, and election matters. He noted that the current number of judges is insufficient for the exponential increase in cases, leading to prolonged litigation and court congestion. The second bill proposes to increase Court of Appeal justices from 70 to 110 and integrate virtual court proceedings. Lawmakers believe these measures, including technology adoption, will reduce appeal delays, improve access to justice, and align with global best practices. Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, referred both bills for detailed consideration. If enacted, these reforms would significantly expand Nigeria’s federal judiciary, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce case congestion, and bolster public confidence in the justice system.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadMonths after demolitions in Makoko and other Lagos waterfront communities, residents continue to struggle to rebuild their lives. Families are living in overcrowded boats, makeshift shelters, and temporary spaces, facing uncertainty, loss, and daily challenges to find safety, food, and housing. A documentary explores Lagos' housing crisis and the human cost of urban development, highlighting the realities for residents long after the demolitions. The film also revisits discussions about relocation plans for affected communities as survivors navigate life without their former homes and stability.
Must ReadDr. Bolaji Olagunju argues that the underperformance of most public sector boards in Nigeria is not accidental but a result of their design. He asserts that every institution is designed to achieve its current results, whether success or failure. To improve performance, he proposes applying "the seven transformational disciplines of running government like a business" to boards: Purpose, Strategy, Structure, Roles, People, Culture, and Systems. Olagunju explains that a performing board clearly defines its purpose beyond legalistic functions, sets strategic direction rather than merely endorsing management's plans, and is structured effectively with appropriate committees and meeting cadences. Furthermore, clear role definitions are crucial to avoid "role pollution." He emphasizes that the most critical discipline is "People," advocating for board members who possess competence, independence, and commitment, rather than being selected based on political or personal considerations. A culture of candour, where directors can openly disagree and challenge management, is also vital. Finally, he stresses the importance of robust systems for board operations, from annual calendars to performance evaluations, rather than relying on informal interactions. Olagunju cites NAFDAC under Dora Akunyili as an example of successful design implementation. He concludes that fixing the design of these boards is essential for national progress, and that while all seven disciplines are important, g
Must ReadBandits attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing three people: Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, the Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and Sunday Ayele, aged six. The incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the attack, stating that a large number of armed bandits on approximately 40 motorcycles invaded the school, with a suspected intention to abduct students and residents. A joint security response, including police, military personnel, and local vigilante groups, engaged the attackers, forcing them to flee. One attacker was neutralized, and a member of the security team sustained gunshot injuries. Preliminary findings indicate no conclusive evidence of a successful mass abduction. The Commissioner of Police has ordered sustained bush-combing operations and patrols, with joint security operatives continuing intensive operations to apprehend suspects and prevent further attacks. The public is urged to remain calm and provide credible information.