In a groundbreaking move to bolster the business landscape and expedite financial conflict resolutions, the Enugu State Government has launched 10 Small Claims Courts. These courts, catering to small-scale financial disputes ranging from N5 million to N10 million, promise to revolutionize the judicial process.
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by Chief Judge Justice Afojulu Ozoemena, signifies a pivotal step towards efficient justice delivery. Justice Reuben Odugu, representing the Chief Judge, emphasized the courts’ crucial role in ensuring swift and cost-effective resolutions. This initiative stands as a testament to Governor Peter Mbah’s unwavering dedication to propelling both justice dispensation and economic progress in the state.”
“Disputes are inevitable in human interactions and business dealings,” Justice Odugu noted. “The ability to resolve these disputes promptly is essential for the proper functioning of both markets and economies. The Small Claims Court offers a fast, informal, and inexpensive mechanism for dispute resolution, which is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and fostering economic growth”
Enhancing the Business Climate
The Chief Judge’s remarks were echoed by Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, the Managing Director and CEO of the Enugu State Investment Development Authority. He also serves as the Focal Person for the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER). Dr. Ogbu-Nwobodo underscored the administration’s goal of transforming Enugu into Nigeria’s premier investment destination, projecting the state’s economic growth from $4.4 billion to $30 billion over the next four to eight years. He praised Governor Mbah for his steadfastness in pursuing an investment-oriented agenda, which includes the establishment of the Small Claims Courts.
“The creation of these courts aligns with our broader strategy to improve the ease of doing business in Enugu State,” Dr. Ogbu-Nwobodo said. “By providing an efficient platform for resolving financial disputes, we are enhancing investor confidence and ensuring a conducive environment for business operations”
Structure and Functioning of the Courts
The Small Claims Courts in Enugu are designed to handle monetary claims efficiently. They operate under the legal framework established by the Magistrates’ Court Law of Enugu State, 2004, and the Magistrates’ Court (Civil Procedure) Rules of Enugu State. The specific guidelines for these courts are outlined in the Practice Directions issued in July 2023.
Justice Odugu elaborated on the courts’ jurisdiction, which covers monetary claims up to N5 million, with the possibility of counterclaims extending to N10 million. He pointed out that the courts aim to provide a speedy, accessible, and cost-effective forum for resolving small monetary disputes, which can be addressed with or without legal representation.
“The Practice Directions provide a clear framework for the operation of the Small Claims Courts, ensuring that disputes are resolved quickly and fairly. This initiative is a significant step towards making justice more accessible to the people of Enugu State,” Justice Odugu added.
Support and Training
The establishment of the Small Claims Courts has received substantial support from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). The council facilitated the training of 10 magistrates and 10 assistant chief registrars, equipping them with the necessary skills to manage the new courts effectively.
Justice Odugu expressed gratitude for PEBEC’s support, noting that the training provided to the magistrates and registrars was crucial for the successful operationalization of the courts. He also unveiled the courts’ practice directions and a handbook on Small Claims Courts during the inauguration event.
Future Implications
The inauguration of the Small Claims Courts is expected to have far-reaching implications for Enugu State’s business environment. By addressing the bottlenecks in the judicial process for financial disputes, the state aims to attract more private sector investment and stimulate economic growth.
Governor Mbah’s administration continues to implement policies aimed at improving the ease of doing business in Enugu. This includes efforts to digitize governance through the establishment of the Enugu Geographical Information System and the promotion of infrastructure development to support the state’s growth into a mega city. Conclusively, the establishment of the Small Claims Courts represents a significant milestone in these efforts, reinforcing Enugu’s position as a forward-thinking state committed to creating a favorable business climate
References
- “Enugu Inaugurates 10 Small Claims Court
- (https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2023/12/14/enugu-inaugurates-10-small-claims-court/)
- (https://businessday.ng/news/article/mbah-inaugurates-11-member-enugu-state-security-trust-fund/)
