The House of Representatives in Nigeria has called upon the Federal Government to appoint nine new justices to the Supreme Court. This decision is aimed at expediting the hearing and resolution of cases to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of justice delivery in the country.
The motion to make this recommendation was put forward by Patrick Umoh, a member of the House, who highlighted that the current number of Supreme Court justices is significantly below the full complement of 21 justices stipulated by the Constitution of Nigeria. The Supreme Court has experienced a backlog of cases, and it is difficult for parties to secure hearing dates for cases filed in 2023, except in election petitions.
Umoh also expressed concern that the non-appointment of new justices has placed significant mental and physical pressure on the current justices, affected the court’s policy-making function, and limited citizens’ access to justice.
The House adopted the motion and has directed its Committee on Federal Judiciary to ensure that the resolution is implemented.
