The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Anambra State has called for the immediate reopening of the Court of Appeal, Awka Division, which has remained closed for over ten months due to security concerns.
In a statement signed by NBA Anambra State Chairman, Barr. Mrs. Betsy Nnaji, and Secretary, H.O.L. Nzute (Esq), the association expressed concerns that despite improved security in the state, the court has remained shut.
"Your administration’s proactive approach to ensuring the safety of lives and property is both commendable and reassuring. It is against this backdrop that we express our deep concern over the continued closure of the Court of Appeal, Awka Division, for over ten months on account of alleged security threats," the statement read.
The closure was initially linked to security threats from gunmen, who reportedly warned courts against holding proceedings until the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
However, the NBA questioned the rationale behind keeping the Appeal Court closed while the National Industrial Court, located in the same premises, continues to function without issues.
The association further noted that courts in more volatile regions such as Borno, Zamfara, and Katsina have remained open, raising doubts about the justification for the prolonged shutdown in Anambra.
The prolonged closure, according to the NBA, has denied residents access to justice, causing prolonged legal battles and increased costs for litigants.
The association called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to engage with judicial authorities to facilitate the reopening of the court and assure the security of justices and court personnel.
In addition, the NBA has written to the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, urging urgent intervention.
"Access to justice is an essential pillar of a democratic society and must not be compromised," the statement emphasized.
