The Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN has urged the members of the ECOWAS Judicial Council to initiate a reform-oriented review of the practice and procedure of the bloc’s Court of Justice.
Fagbemi made the call at the opening ceremony of the Statutory Meeting of the ECOWAS on Monday in Abuja
This, he said, to avoid conflicts with national courts and to make the court realize envisioned potential as a respectable regional court”.
He said the judiciary should rise to the occasion in helping the process of adherence to conduct of free and fair elections and constitutional governance must be protected.
“The council stands in a pole position to work towards the promotion of rule of law and democratic governance, which has come under intense pressure in recent times.
“I urge you to provide credible network for promotion of uniform rules of practice and procedure in the administration of justice in order to reduce conflict of laws in the region.
“I will want you to initiate a reform-oriented review of the practice and procedure of the ECOWAS Court of Justice to avoid conflicts with national courts and to make the court realize envisioned potential as a respectable regional court.”
He said the block should continue to work towards achieving uniform economic policies and institutions, the judiciary should not be left behind.
He advised the council to also look into running exchange programmes amongst judicial officers for capacity building and promotion of cooperation and integration within the sub-region.
The Chairman of the council, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola said that collective efforts will continue to shape the future of justice in the region.
“We together at the region bear the weighty responsibility of safeguarding the principles of justice, upholding the rule of law, and advancing the cause of peace and prosperity for the millions of people we serve.
“This statutory meeting is not just a routine gathering, but a beacon of hope and a testament to our unwavering dedication to these noble ideals.
“It is a forum for dialogue, collaboration, and collective action, a platform through which we can exchange insights, share best practices, and chart a course for the future of our judicial systems.”
He implored members of the council to reflect on the progress, the challenges facing the court, and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“Let us reaffirm out commitment to the protection of human rights, the promotion of region integration, and the resolution of disputes through peaceful means.
“Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our shared values, reinvigorate our collective efforts and rededicate ourselves to the noble cause of justice.
“Our shared commitment to justice is what united us, and it’s the unity that will guide us through the challenges ahead.”
Also speaking, the President Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS, Justice Edward Asante noted that the region has faced numerous challenges along the way, but through perseverance and solidarity, it overcame them with grace and dignity.
“Our commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the ECOWAS Treaty remains steadfast, serving as the guiding light in our quest for a more just and equitable society.”
NAN
