By Ayomide Otitoju
The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Josiah Majebi, has officially signed into law a revised set of Area Court Civil Procedure Rules, aimed at modernizing judicial processes within the state’s Area Court system.
The signing took place in his chambers at the High Court Complex, Lokoja, following the submission of the Review Committee’s report. The new rules are expected to replace the previous regulations, which had been in place since 1991.
Describing the moment as a “milestone in Kogi’s judicial history,” Justice Majebi commended the Committee and Hon. Justice Moses Gwatana, who oversees the Area Courts within the State’s Council of Judges, for what he called a demonstration of “progressive foresight.”
“This review has addressed critical gaps in our legal framework,” Justice Majebi stated. “It aligns our Area Court operations with modern realities, including issues raised just yesterday at the NJI regarding fees and trial timelines.”
The Chief Judge emphasized the vital role Area Courts play in resolving the majority of cases in the state, asserting that the updated rules would reposition them from being viewed as “native courts” to fully empowered legal institutions with wide jurisdiction.
In separate remarks, Justice Gwatana and the Committee Chairman, Hon. Badru Abdulghaniy, noted that the amendments were essential to align court practices with evolving legal trends. Hon. Badru added that the reforms were driven by a determination to fulfill the Chief Judge’s vision for a more responsive and technology-driven judiciary.
Key highlights of the new Area Court Civil Procedure Rules include:
Digital Innovations: Introduction of electronic filing, service of processes, and written addresses.
Trial Reforms: Specification of time-bound trials, including a 60-day limit for determining motions.
Legal Representation Enhancements: Front-loading of evidence and documents where parties are represented by lawyers.
Service of Processes: Authorization for Law Chambers and courier companies to serve court processes, alongside electronic means.
Ex-Parte Applications: Provision for ex-parte orders to abate after 14 days unless extended.
Third-Party Procedures: Clear guidelines for amendments of court processes and third-party involvement.
Fee Adjustments: Upward review of fees related to land title declarations, fund recovery, and land inspections.
Justice Majebi expressed confidence that the revised rules would enhance efficiency and restore public confidence in the judicial system.
“These courts handle the bulk of our cases, and it’s crucial they operate with the tools and rules that reflect current expectations and legal developments,” he said.
The Chief Judge concluded by urging the judiciary to continually evolve to meet the demands of justice delivery in a rapidly changing world.
