Judges must conclude political cases by October– CJ

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Adamu Abdul-Kafarati, on Monday directed judges in the court to ensure that all pending political cases in their courts are concluded before the end of October 2018.

He said this was to ensure that the court is exonerated from blames by the political class as well as not to allow itself to be used by politicians to scuttle the political process and disrupt the peace of the country.

The CJ said he had directed vacation judges not to grant ex-parte orders in any political case brought before their courts and that they should be guided in their decisions by the rule of law and the constitution, in order to remain the hope of all citizens.

Justice Abdul-Kafarati gave the charge in Abuja at a special court session to mark the commencement of the 2018/2019 Legal Year of the Federal High Court.

“In an attempt to forestall any hiccups and the blame on the court by the political gladiators, I have during this vacation issued a circular that interim orders of exparte shall not be granted in political cases brought before the court.

“I believe that controversies especially in political cases can be reduced when the court takes a decision after hearing all the parties in the case.

“It is also extremely important that all political cases that may affect any of the parties, which are still pending in any of our courts, be concluded without further waste of time to afford all candidates the opportunity to pursue their political ambitions. Honourable judges whom such cases are still pending must endeavour to conclude them before end of October 2018,” he said.

The CJ who appreciated the judges and staff of the court for their dedication and hard work, however insisted that they must be wary in their handling of all cases “especially cases concerning political parties and the upcoming general elections.”

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He added, “It is my advice that the advantages of the centre be exploited by all to help us reduce the dockets of the courts and for quicker resolution of disputes devoid of the usual legal technicalities.”

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), acknowledging the constitutional mandate of the court, urged the court to take urgent steps to facilitate the speedy dispensation of justice.

Malami, who was represented at the event by the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, further suggested that the court in carrying out its duties must always strike the appropriate balance between the personal rights of litigants and the overall good of society.

 

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