NBA Urges Imo High Court Shutdown over Safety Concerns

Lawyers in Owerri, Imo State, have called for a one-week suspension of activities at the Justice Oputa High Court due to safety concerns.

The Chairman of the Owerri branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Barrister Chris Ihentuge, on Friday, addressed his colleagues and litigants at the court, citing concerns about vibrations during court sittings.

The court, built under former Governor Rochas Okorocha’s administration, has been plagued by structural issues, raising safety alarms among legal practitioners.

Ihentuge explained that the building had been vibrating during court sessions, with reports confirming that both Justice Onyeukwu and another judge had raised concerns about similar incidents in recent days.

He said, “I have been reliably informed that while court was sitting yesterday, the building was vibrating. I made calls to the Chief Registrar, and she confirmed that Justice Onyeukwu complained and informed her about the incident. I also heard from another judge that two days ago the same thing happened, and this issue has been lingering even before this building was put to use; there were complaints about structural defects in the building and we complained, but nothing happened.

“So, we are saying for now, we should suspend, at least for one week, the use of this building until the proper thing is done. The proper thing is to let experts come and certify that this building is fit. We cannot risk our lives. One week will not kill us. Let us suspend activities in this building.

“Let it be on record that the NBA Owerri branch has warned lawyers and litigants that it is risky to use this building as it is now. That is why we are complaining that a Chief Judge should be appointed for the Imo State Judiciary.”

Ihentuge also expressed frustration over the lack of a Chief Judge in Imo State for nearly three months, arguing that the absence of leadership has contributed to the judicial system’s current difficulties.

He emphasised the urgency of appointing a Chief Judge to address ongoing issues within the Imo judiciary.

“A situation where we don’t have a Chief Judge going into three months now is not acceptable. Let all well-meaning Imolites say something about this. We cannot remain without a leader, and that is what is causing all these problems. Who do you complain to?” he stated.

He further criticised the state of the building, saying, “There are lots of things to complain about. You cannot walk these stairs during the daytime without a torchlight. Judges are not sitting because they don’t have lights. You remove your wig and gown because there is no fan. Nothing is working, and that is our position. So, this building, for now, is not safe, and that is our position for now.”

Allegations have also surfaced suggesting that the structure, originally intended as a hotel, was later converted into a court, contributing to its poor ventilation and continued darkness.