By; RAPHAEL OKHIRIA, Benin City
The Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, has established two channels for communication with litigants, lawyers and other people or groups doing business with the state judiciary.
The platforms include dedicated SMS and WhatsApp channel for members of the public to send complaints and suggestions directly to the Chief Judge of the state.
Okungbowa said the dedicated information platforms are aimed at tackling the perennial problems of delays, absenteeism and extortion which undermine access to timely justice.
No fewer than 10 anomalies, including “court not sitting, staff not on seat, demands for money not covered by government treasury receipts, delay in obtaining judgements, orders and certified true copies of court processes”.
Others include “delays in compiling records of appeals, non-service of court processes, demands for money for bail or to perfect bail conditions, touting within the court premises, any other complaints and suggestions.”
In order to have a “better Edo State Judiciary”, as well as promoting transparency and accountability, interested persons and groups can reach the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State through SMS and WhatsApp on 09061865678.
These direct feedback mechanisms for court users to hold judicial staff and officials accountable, could be viewed as revolutionary and a potential game changer in cleaning up the judicial system if properly implemented by all those concerned.
