The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Bwari branch, Abuja, has identified impediments hindering the dispensation of justice in the nation. The branch chairman, Paul Daudu, delineated the obstacles on Friday during a press conference to unveil the branch’s law week in Abuja.
Mr. Daudu outlined the challenges as extended pre-trial detention, protracted trials, limited access to legal representation, and inadequate case management.
He noted that the issues also encompass contradictory and unjust judgments from higher courts and unethical behaviors by certain legal practitioners and law enforcement officials.
“There is indeed a prevailing belief among ordinary citizens that what currently exists in Nigeria is the ‘administration of law’ rather than ‘administration of justice.’
“The former involves a system permeated by intricate technicalities, legal terminology, cumbersome adjudicatory processes, and rhetoric.
“As a branch, we acknowledge the obstacles confronting the administration of justice in Nigeria,” he stated.
The chairman urged legal practitioners, as custodians of the law, to reaffirm their dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring equal access to justice for all.
“Our theme for this year’s Law Week, ‘Strengthening the Foundation of Justice,’ deeply resonates with the fundamental principles of our profession and the ideals upon which our legal system is founded,” he remarked. Highlighted events during the week-long occasion include a Jumat service, a novelty football match between senior bar members and the Young Lawyers Forum, lectures, and a Christian thanksgiving service, among others.
From: Nwakaji Peace Martins
