The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, on Monday announced that 360 appeals have been listed for hearing during a special one-week court session in Lagos.
The special sitting, which brings together 40 Justices sitting in 16 panels from different divisions across the country, is part of activities marking the court’s 50th anniversary (golden jubilee).
Justice Dongban-Mensem said the initiative demonstrates the court’s commitment to improving efficiency in the administration of justice, noting that Lagos bears a heavy burden of appellate litigation.
“Today’s sitting reflects the court’s deliberate commitment to enhancing efficiency by addressing the growing volume of appeals,” she said.
She urged lawyers and litigants to ensure their cases are ripe for hearing, warning that the exercise should not be treated casually.
“This is not a vacation. Counsel must come fully prepared so we can maximise this opportunity,” she added.
Justice Dongban-Mensem further urged the media and the public to support the judiciary by promoting accurate reporting and public confidence.
“Judges are not magicians. They need evidence and honest participation for justice to be done,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Bar, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, praised the initiative and assured the court of lawyers’ cooperation.
“We assure my Lords of our readiness to facilitate a speedy and expeditious hearing of all pending cases,” he said.
Adegboruwa also called for better funding and improved infrastructure for the judiciary, describing adequate support as essential to effective justice delivery.
