The House of Representatives has restated its dedication to comprehensive judicial reform and faster justice delivery in the Federal Capital Territory, as lawmakers considered two significant legislative proposals aimed at transforming the territory’s legal framework.
This commitment was echoed by the Chairman of the House Committee on the Judiciary, Rep. Adamu Gamawa, during a public hearing held on Wednesday.
One of the bills under consideration seeks a constitutional amendment to increase the number of judges serving in the FCT, while the second proposes the creation of lower courts with authority to handle civil and criminal cases within Abuja.
Gamawa underscored the determination of the 10th Assembly to ensure justice is both accessible and affordable for all FCT residents, regardless of their social or economic background.
“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 noted that a stronger judiciary is essential for rebuilding public trust, explaining that the proposed legislation aims to ease the workload of existing judges while enhancing the overall efficiency of the system.
“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.”
Representing the Speaker of the House, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Aliyu Madaki described the hearing as a pivotal move towards holistic judicial reform.
He reaffirmed the legislature’s solid commitment to the rule of law and improving the justice sector.
Also contributing, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Afam Osigwe (SAN), welcomed the legislative initiatives but advised lawmakers to consider amending certain provisions of customary law.
He specifically recommended the repeal of Section 16 of the Principal Act.
The public hearing was widely viewed as a milestone in the journey to modernize the judicial process in the FCT, with stakeholders hopeful about the positive outcomes of the proposed changes.