By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja
The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to judicial reforms and timely justice delivery in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as lawmakers deliberate on two key legislative proposals aimed at overhauling the territory’s judicial system.
Chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary (FCT), Rep. Adamu Gamawa, made this known on Wednesday during a public hearing on the bills. One of the bills seeks to amend the Constitution to increase the number of judges in the FCT, while the other proposes the establishment of lower courts with jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters in Abuja.
Gamawa emphasized the 10th House’s resolve to promote equal and affordable access to justice for all residents, regardless of background or social status.
“It is the vision of the Hon. Speaker that access to justice is made available and affordable to all and sundry in the FCT,” he said. “No one should have any reason to take the law into their own hands when justice can be delivered swiftly and fairly.”
He stressed that strengthening the judiciary is critical to restoring public confidence, noting that the proposed bills are designed to improve efficiency and reduce the burden on existing judges.
“This public hearing provides a vital platform for constructive dialogue and expert input,” he added. “Our goal is to enact effective legislation that ensures justice is not only done but seen to be done—swiftly and fairly.”
Speaker of the House, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, represented by Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Aliyu Madaki, described the hearing as a crucial step toward comprehensive judicial reform. He reiterated the House’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and improving the justice delivery system.
Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Afam Osigwe (SAN), expressed strong support for the proposed reforms. He, however, urged lawmakers to revisit and amend certain aspects of customary law, particularly recommending the removal of Section 16 of the Principal Act.
The hearing marked a significant step in efforts to reshape judicial processes in the FCT, with stakeholders expressing optimism about the potential impact of the proposed changes.
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