The Zamfara Government has commended an NGO ‘International Alert’ for supporting the state to establish a Multi-Door Courthouse to strengthen the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system in the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Musa Garba Bukkuyum made the commendation Gusau on Thursday, at an event for the adoption of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Zamfara Multi-Door Courthouse (ZMDC).
The International Alert supported the state government to actualise the establishment of Multi-Door Courthouse Bill and its passage at the State House of Assembly.
The NGO supported the state government at various steps to ensure successful ADR operations in the state.
The permanent secretary described the support from International Alert as a right step in the right direction.
He noted that the state house of assembly had already passed the bill for the establishment of the Multi-Door Courthouse, “which is currently awaiting the assent of the State Governor.”
Garba further said that the document would guide the operations of the ADR centre and ensure smooth handling of cases.
“You know, the SOP provides detailed procedures on how complaints will be filed, handled and resolved at the centre.
The ADR mechanism will focus mainly on civil matters and help reduce the number of cases pending before conventional courts.
“The ADR centre will handle disputes related to matrimonial, disagreements between individuals and financial transactions,” he explained.
He added that cases brought before the centre would be resolved within a limited timeframe to encourage quick and amicable settlements.
“The document outlines the responsibilities of arbitrators and other actors involved in the process, ensuring fairness and efficiency in resolving disputes.
"The intention of this document is to regulate and guide the centre on how to receive complaints, handle cases and ensure their proper disposal,” he explained.
Also speaking, a representative of International Alert, Mr Stephen John, said the organisation had been supporting Zamfara and Katsina States in promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to improve access to justice.
According to him, the SOP clearly defines how cases will be referred to the centre and the roles of various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious leaders and security agencies.
John revealed that the ADR centre would provide a faster and more affordable way for people to resolve disputes without going through lengthy court processes.
He added that the initiative would help ensure timely justice and prevent conflicts from escalating within communities.
During the event, the Zamfara government had adopted the SOP for the ZMDC as part of efforts to strengthen the ADR system in the state.
Various stakeholders who participated at the event included; representatives of the Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Traditional Rulers, CSOs, the media as well as other justice sector actors.(New Nigerian)
