By Ugochi Ndubuisi
An Abuja-based lawyer, Uchenna Ojembe, has urged the Federal Government to strengthen accountability within Nigeria’s judiciary to ensure speedy dispensation of justice nationwide.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja, Ojembe stressed that government must ensure that judicial officers are held accountable when courts fail to sit without adequate explanation.
He said efficiency and accountability were necessary in upholding the law, especially as many litigants travel long distances for scheduled proceedings.
The legal practitioner, however, explained that public expectations about judicial delays should remain realistic, noting that judges handle numerous cases and must follow established legal processes before resolving matters.
He, therefore, advocated the appointment of more judges and judicial officers to enhance equitable distribution of caseloads, thereby reducing pressure on individual judges to accelerate justice delivery.
He commended the government on its intervention and renovation of courtrooms and court environments in Abuja, noting that more interventions would uplift the judicial sector.
On public enlightenment, Ojembe said his firm, Uche Ojembe & Associates, Wuye, has been educating Nigerians through social media and articles on legal concepts.
He said simplifying legal concepts was necessary for the understanding of ordinary Nigerians to guard against misinterpretation of laws, especially when judgments are not in one’s favour.
He said the firm’s new headquarters in Games Village, Abuja, would expand dispute resolution, litigation, alternative dispute resolution, property transactions, corporate and commercial services, debt recovery, probate and other specialised legal services.
Ojembe, who pledged to uphold diligence, integrity and responsible use of opportunities in legal practice, urged other legal practitioners to expand their scope to encourage Nigerians in the pursuit of justice.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Magdalene Ukuedojor