The proposed legislation was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, Babajimi Benson, Akin Rotimi Jr, and five others.
Leading the debate on its general principles, one of the co-sponsors, Jonathan Gbefwi, explained that the bill seeks to address a fundamental aspect of the judiciary’s ability to deliver timely justice via increase of judges in the High Court of the FCT, from the current maximum of 70 to a minimum of 100.
He noted that the FCT High Court stands as a crucial pillar in Nigeria’s judicial framework, serving not only the residents of Abuja, but also, in many respects, playing a pivotal role in cases of national importance.
The lawmaker recalled that at the beginning of the 2022/2023 legal year, the FCT High Court carried forward 12,513 cases, while assigning 5,952 new cases, bringing the workload to a level that greatly strained available judicial resources.
He said as it currently stands, the High Court of the FCT was limited in the number of judges it can engage, adding that the inadequacy significantly affects the rising volume and complexity of cases brought before it.
Gbefwi expressed optimism that by increasing the number of judges, the amendment would reduce delays in case resolution, ensure more efficient handling of cases, and enhance public confidence in the judiciary.
The bill, which was thereafter put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, was passed for second reading, and referred to the Committee on FCT Judiciary and Constitution Review for further legislative action.
