The Court of Appeal has commenced a special one-week sitting in Lagos, with 360 appeals slated for hearing as part of activities marking the court’s 50th anniversary.
Announcing the development on Monday, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, said the exercise involves 40 Justices drawn from various divisions nationwide, sitting in 16 panels to reduce the backlog of cases in the Lagos Division.
She explained that the special session underscores the court’s resolve to enhance efficiency in the administration of justice, noting that Lagos continues to carry a significant share of appellate litigation in the country.
According to her, the initiative is aimed at addressing the growing volume of appeals and ensuring quicker dispensation of justice.
Justice Dongban-Mensem cautioned legal practitioners and litigants to ensure that their cases are ready for hearing, stressing that the special sitting should be taken seriously.
“This exercise is not a vacation. Counsel are expected to appear fully prepared so that we can make the best use of this opportunity,” she said.
She also appealed to the media and the general public to support the judiciary through accurate reporting and by fostering public confidence in the justice system, noting that judges rely on evidence and the cooperation of parties to deliver justice.
Speaking on behalf of the Bar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, commended the initiative and pledged the cooperation of lawyers to ensure the success of the special sitting.
He assured the court of the Bar’s commitment to speedy and effective hearings, while also calling for improved funding and infrastructure for the judiciary to strengthen justice delivery across the country.
