Inadequate Funding Affecting Rule of Law In Nigeria, West Africa, CJN Says At ECOWAS Judicial Council Meeting

The Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, ECOWAS Judicial Council, Olukayode Ariwoola, has said that inadequate funding is part of the challenges affecting the promotion of rule of law in Nigeria and other West African countries.

Ariwoola disclosed this in his opening address at the statutory meeting of the ECOWAS Judicial Council held at the National Judicial Council, Abuja.

Ariwoola noted the great feats of the region’s judiciary but said several challenges persisted.

“While the ECOWAS Judicial Council has made significant strides in promoting justice and rule of law in West Africa, numerous challenges persist. These include inadequate funding, capacity constraints, and the need to bolster cooperation among member states,” Ariwoola added.

The CJN, however, said the daunting challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration from relevant stakeholders.

He said working together would help stakeholders within the region and would help overcome “shared obstacles” and build a brighter future for West Africa.

He explained that in a region characterised by diverse legal systems and traditions, the harmonization of laws and legal practices is essential for promoting regional integration and cooperation.

“In conclusion, the ECOWAS Judicial Council stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the quest for justice and regional within West Africa, ” Ariwoola added.

For the President, ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, it was time for deliberate actions to be taken to address challenges re relating to the enforcement of
judgements across the region.

“In this era, where instability and insecurity are overwhelming our community, the role of the justice sector is crucial in conflict prevention, through the promotion and defence of the rule of law and human rights,” he said.

He advised that it is crucial to institutionalised meetings of the judicial Council to ensure that the activities of the court benefit from the regular review and guidance of the Council.

“It is gladdening to note that our Community Court has become an exemplary institution, which is being emulated by other regional courts in the continent.

“The Court has witnessed the transition of judges over the years: the recruitment of Judges of high quality and standards to preside over the affairs of the Court,” he added.

The ECOWAS president appreciated the CJN, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to all the delegations that came from West Africa including respective judges.

On his part, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, said the ECOWAS Judicial Council must continue to ensure that the Court is endowed with the most qualified, competent and committed persons to enhance justice, promoting the objectives of ECOWAS, and consolidating cooperation and integration within the sub-region.

He urged the courts to pay attention to the peculiarities of member States and refrain from issuing orders and judgments that are practically incapable of enforcement.

“There is also a dire need to promote and deepen alternative dispute resolution measures within the region.

“I wish to encourage the Council and the Court of Justice to continue to embark on capacity building initiatives for justices and other relevant personnel,” he added.