In a recent interview, Wale Igbintade from Lagos and Adedayo Akinwale from Abuja discussed a significant resolution by the House of Representatives to hold public hearings addressing the ongoing delays in delivering justice throughout Nigeria. This decision follows a motion brought forward by Hon. Ganiyu Ayuba during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Also weighing in on the issue, representatives from the Law Hub Development and Advocacy Centre have highlighted the critical need for collaboration, information sharing, and skill development among various stakeholders as a strategy to improve the nation’s justice administration system.

During the legislative session, Ayuba underscored the judiciary’s vital function as the branch of government responsible for ensuring timely justice and interpreting laws enacted by the legislature. He pointed out that judicial powers are constitutionally granted to various courts established under the Constitution, as well as through the Acts of the National Assembly and local laws passed by state Houses of Assembly across Nigeria.

Ayuba emphasized that one crucial component of fair hearing, as specified in Section 36(1) of the Constitution, is the prompt resolution of civil rights and obligations by legally established courts or tribunals. He further noted that the Constitution provides mechanisms for expediting justice, especially in electoral issues, assigning the Court of Appeal as the final authority in specific cases.

Addressing the persistent delays in the judicial system, the lawmaker expressed concern that such issues could erode public confidence in the judiciary. Consequently, the House has directed the Committees on Judiciary, Justice, and Constitutional Review to conduct these public hearings aimed at tackling delays and rebuilding trust in the judicial process, with a report expected within four weeks to inform further legislative action.

In a related discussion, Mr. Osita Chukwuma, Executive Director of LawHub, shared his perspectives at a workshop in Lagos focused on evaluating the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL). He stressed the importance of fostering increased cooperation among stakeholders, asserting that solid partnerships within the justice sector are essential for achieving meaningful reform.

Chukwuma elaborated on the collaborative initiatives between Law Hub and the MacArthur Foundation, aimed at bridging existing gaps and enhancing the efficiency of justice delivery. He pointed out that ongoing support and collaboration among stakeholders are key to making significant progress in criminal justice reform, which would benefit not only Lagos State but also the entire nation.

In conclusion, he reiterated Law Hub’s commitment to aiding Lagos and other states in Nigeria in achieving notable improvements in the justice sector.