Enugu committed to justice sector reform — Gov Mbah

Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, has restated the commitment of his administration to justice sector reform, saying that it remains the cornerstone of his government. Mbah spoke during the opening of the 2025 Annual General Conference, AGC, of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Sunday. Listing some […]

Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, has restated the commitment of his administration to justice sector reform, saying that it remains the cornerstone of his government.

Mbah spoke during the opening of the 2025 Annual General Conference, AGC, of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Sunday.

Listing some concrete steps by his administration towards justice sector reform, the governor said, “We were among the first states to fully implement financial autonomy for the judiciary in line with Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This has enhanced the efficiency, independence, and dignity of our courts.

“We have carried out a comprehensive rehabilitation and digitisation of our courtrooms across the three senatorial zones. The High Court Complex in Enugu is equipped with e-filing, virtual hearing facilities, and an integrated case management system.

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“To decongest our courts and promote alternative dispute resolution, we have strengthened and expanded the Enugu Multi-Door Courthouse, making it a model in the region for commercial and family dispute settlement.

“Through partnership with civil society and the NBA, we have expanded access to pro bono legal services for indigent citizens and detainees, especially in our rural areas. No one should be too poor to afford justice.

“We have also carried out an extensive codification and review of obsolete state laws to reflect modern realities, ensure gender justice, and promote the ease of doing business in Enugu.

“Perhaps one of the reforms I am proudest of – we introduced real-time transcription for our courts. Attaining Verbatim Reporting for the courts has eliminated the strain of longhand recording on judges, cut down on delays and improved productivity.”

He reminded lawyers that the law is more than a profession, saying it serves as the conscience of the nation.

“We are not only courtroom advocates; we are also defenders of truth, architects of peace, and champions of equity,” he said.