Fagbemi Calls For Harmonised Legal Standards Across West Africa

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has called for harmonisation of legal standards across West Africa.

Speaking on Thursday at the opening ceremony of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the ECOWAS Court of Justice in Abuja, Fagbemi said a unified legal framework is vital for justice, regional stability, and integration.

According to him, the regional court must continue to act as a bridge between national systems and international law while serving as a guardian of rights and obligations across the community.

“The ECOWAS legal space must not be a patchwork of divergent systems, but a harmonised framework that promotes predictability, fairness, and mutual respect,” the minister said.

He commended the Court for its innovations such as virtual hearings and electronic filing systems, describing them as “forward-thinking measures that have expanded access to justice across borders.”

“From terrorism to cybercrime, our region faces threats that do not respect borders. Legal systems must adapt to address these challenges collectively. The ECOWAS Court has a role to play in interpreting regional instruments that support coordinated security responses while safeguarding fundamental rights,” he stated.

He also warned that democracy in the region was under strain, noting that electoral disputes, unconstitutional changes of government, and suppression of civic freedoms demanded principled adjudication.

On cross-border financial crimes, the Attorney-General commended the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).

“GIABA’s work in promoting anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks is indispensable. The ECOWAS Court must continue to interpret and enforce legal standards that complement GIABA’s efforts, ensuring that financial integrity is preserved across the region,” he said.

On reforms, Fagbemi encouraged the Court to learn from other regional institutions in order to enhance our judicial process.

He said, “By studying how other regional courts manage appellate review, enforce judgments, engage with civil society, and balance sovereignty with supranational authority, the ECOWAS Court can refine its own processes and strengthen its legitimacy.”

“The Court should institutionalise ADR, build capacity among mediators and arbitrators, and promote awareness across member states,” he urged. “In doing so, it will not only reduce the burden on formal proceedings but also foster a more inclusive and responsive justice system,” Fagbemi added.

Expressing concern over the absence of an appeal process for the Court’s judgments, Fagbemi stated that “the absence of a separate appellate mechanism limits access to justice, especially in cases where errors of law or procedure may have occurred.”

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment and support to the ECOWAS Court to enhance its effectiveness, independence, and accessibility.