Femi Falana Calls for Vacation Justices in NG Rights Appeals

• Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the President of the Court of Appeal, Honourable Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, to designate Justices to hear appeals arising from fundamental rights cases during public holidays.
• Falana's proposal is based on his observation that while High Courts already make provision for vacation judges to attend to urgent matters, the same courtesy is not extended to the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
• The designation of vacation justices for urgent rights appeals can help alleviate the burden on litigants seeking redress and ensure timely resolution of these appeals.

Falana's proposal is a reminder that the administration of justice must be guided by the principles of fairness, efficiency, and transparency.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has made a significant call to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the President of the Court of Appeal, Honourable Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem. He urged them to designate Justices to hear appeals arising from fundamental rights cases during the annual vacation of both appellate courts.

Falana's proposal is based on his observation that while High Courts already make provision for vacation judges to attend to urgent matters, the same courtesy is not extended to the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. This gap in service has led to delays in the resolution of fundamental rights appeals during public holidays.

The designation of vacation justices for urgent rights appeals is a long-overdue measure that can help alleviate the burden on litigants seeking redress. In Nigeria, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court are appellate courts that hear appeals from lower courts, including those arising from fundamental rights cases.

Public holidays, which are typically observed by all courts in Nigeria, pose a significant challenge to the timely resolution of these appeals. The current practice of suspending proceedings during public holidays can lead to unnecessary delays, which may have far-reaching consequences for litigants.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the President of the Court of Appeal, Honourable Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, have the power to appoint vacation justices to attend to urgent matters. This appointment would enable them to exercise their jurisdiction and ensure that appeals are heard in a timely manner.

Falana's call for the designation of vacation justices for urgent rights appeals is a significant development that can have far-reaching implications for the administration of justice in Nigeria. The timely resolution of fundamental rights appeals is crucial to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.

The potential impact on litigants seeking redress should not be underestimated. Delays in the resolution of these appeals can lead to further hardship, stress, and financial burden on individuals and families. Lawyers should take note of this development and advise their clients accordingly, as it may impact the timeliness of urgent rights appeals.

Ultimately, Falana's proposal is a reminder that the administration of justice must be guided by the principles of fairness, efficiency, and transparency.

Lawyers should note that this development may impact the timeliness of urgent rights appeals, and advise clients to plan accordingly given the potential for delays during public holidays.

Source: Original reporting via TheNigeriaLawyer