Court of Appeal holds special sitting in Lagos, lists 360 appeals

The Court of Appeal on Monday commenced a special one-week sitting in Lagos, with no fewer than 360 appeals slated for hearing as part of activities marking its 50th anniversary.

President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, who announced the special session, said the exercise brings together 40 Justices drawn from different divisions across the country and sitting in 16 panels.

She explained that the initiative was designed to enhance efficiency in the administration of justice, particularly in Lagos, which she described as carrying a significant burden of appellate litigation.

“Today’s sitting reflects the court’s deliberate commitment to enhancing efficiency by addressing the growing volume of appeals,” Justice Dongban-Mensem said.

The Court of Appeal president urged legal practitioners and litigants to ensure that their matters are fully prepared and ripe for hearing, cautioning against treating the exercise lightly.

“This is not a vacation. Counsel must come fully prepared so we can maximise this opportunity,” she added.

Justice Dongban-Mensem also appealed to the media and members of the public to support the judiciary by promoting accurate reporting and strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

“Judges are not magicians. They need evidence and honest participation for justice to be done,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Bar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, commended the initiative and pledged the cooperation of lawyers to ensure its success.

“We assure my Lords of our readiness to facilitate a speedy and expeditious hearing of all pending cases,” Adegboruwa said.

He further called for improved funding and better infrastructure for the judiciary, describing adequate support as critical to effective justice delivery.