The Chief Judge of Anambra State, His Lordship Hon. Justice Onochie Anyachebelu say the volume of cases filed in the High Court when compared to the current number of Honourable Judges leaves nobody in doubt that the state needs an increase in the number Judges.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
Justice Anyachebelu in his speech with the theme; ‘Aadvancing Judicial Excellence in the 21st Century’ at the just concluded legal year ceremony, stated that it is not in contention that Anambra State is a very high litigious State in Nigeria and the number of law suits filed and determined in a year is only second to Lagos State.
“The case of Lagos State is understandable owing to the large population of residents.
” However, when you compare the population of Lagos State vis-a-vis the population of residents in Anambra State against the background of cases filed in court, then you will be shocked to discover that Anambra State virtually has more court cases than any other State in Nigeria.
” As at today, Anambra State Judiciary has 30 Honourable Judges including the Chief Judge, 71 Learned Magistrates of various cadres and 29 Presidents of Customary Court.
“The total number of cases filed, disposed off and pending at the High court, Magistrate’s and Customary Courts respectively, are as summarized and indicated in the schedules A, B, C, hereunder.
” While getting more hands will help to reduce the burden on the serving and hardworking Judges but not the number of cases filed.
“The fact remains that the citizens are getting more aware of their rights and at the slightest disagreement rush to the Court to ventilate their perceived grievances, some of which are with respect are not necessary.
” I have no doubt that one of the practical steps to reduce the number of cases is by embracing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (ADR) and for lawyers to be mindful of their professional ethics and rules of professional conduct to find the courage to advise their clients on the reasonable probability of the success of their cases before rushing to court with certain claims which have no business in the court except to probably buy time. Ego needs to be tamed.
” Be that as it may, we have a fresh quota for appointment of additional Judges allocated to us by the National Judicial Council.
“The materialization of this quota into reality depends on the availability of adequate accommodation and othe facilities.
“The Government is already addressing the matter and construction of more courts buildings, Judges quarters is ongoing and I am confident that they will soon be delivered to enable the commencement of the process for appointment of additional Honourable Judges to enhance the delivery of justice in the State”. The Chief Judge said.
