The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has again berated the menace of cases backlog in Nigeria’s court, noting that it has overwhelmed the courts and eroded public confidence in the judicial system.
The CJN stated this on Monday while delivering an opening remark at the opening of the conference of all Nigerian judges of the lower court held at the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja.
Speaking earlier in an opening address, the Administrator of the NJI, Justice Salisu Garba Abdullahi noted: “There is no gainsaying the fact that lower court plays pivotal roles in the administration of justice, a role amplified by their interface with a large crop of citizens.
The administrator reminded participants at the conference that the ultimate aim of the Institute was to develop the capabilities of participants.
While acknowledging glaring challenges plaguing the court, Kekere-Ekun particularly regretted that limited resources, poor working conditions, and lack of incentive had overwhelmed and caused significant backlogs.
The CJN said: “Many of our lower courts are becoming overwhelmed. These backlogs not only hamper the efficiency of our courts but also erode public confidence in the judicial system.”
She then urged practical improvement in case management and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, re-emphasising that ethical standards, integrity, and professionalism in the line of duty remains the hallmark of the job.
