The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme presented copies of the Magistrates’ Courts Law of 2021 to the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Hon. Justice Onochie M. Anyachebelu. The event occurred in the Chief Judge’s Conference Room, Anthony I. Iguh Judiciary Headquarters, Awka on Thursday, 29th July 2022. The new Magistrates’ Courts’ Law was part of the RoLAC’s efforts toward reforming the criminal justice system.
The State Coordinator of RoLAC, Mrs Josephine Onah (fondly called Madam RoLAC) presented copies of the printed Magistrates’ Courts Law to the Chief Judge in the presence of the Justice Sector Reform Team members. In her speech, Mrs Onah stated that one of the RoLAC support areas was to help improve the administration of criminal justice in the State. According to Mrs Onah, the RoLAC supported the review because of its importance to the Magistracy and the Magistrates’ Courts, given that the bulk of criminal cases are tried in the Magistrates’ Courts. She closed by thanking the Chief Judge for giving the RoLAC the opportunity to be a part of the State Judiciary’s accomplishment.
The Justice Sector Reform Team of Anambra State is chaired by Hon. Justice Pete Obiorah. In his contribution on behalf of the Chairman, His Worship Mike Anyadiegwu stated that the new Magistrates’ Courts Law 2021 implemented many innovations geared towards meeting the current demands in the Criminal Justice Sector, eg. increase in the jurisdiction of the Magistrates’ Courts.
The Chief Judge expressed heartfelt gratitude to RoLAC for her inputs towards making the new law a reality, then to the State Legislature for passing it, and finally to the Governor for signing and assenting to it. He acknowledged RoLAC’s concern for improved criminal justice sector.
The Chief Judge expressed gratitude to God for His goodness, praying that God would not leave the judiciary. He hoped that things will be under control soon, and we will resume our normal lives. He expressed gratitude to the RoLAC for the presentation, saying that the State Judiciary will put the new law to good and effective use, ensuring that its influence is felt.
Below are pictures of the occasion:
