ABUJA– Perturbed by the backlog of cases awaiting judicial attention, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday, urged various courts in the country to commence virtual hearing of cases.
A Push for Judicial Reform
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) recently urged courts across the country to adopt virtual hearings as a way to tackle the persistent backlog of cases. With thousands of matters pending in Nigerian courts, delays have become a major obstacle to timely justice. By leveraging technology, the CJN believes the judiciary can deliver faster, more efficient outcomes while reducing the burden on litigants and lawyers.
What Are Virtual Hearings?
Virtual hearings are legal proceedings conducted via digital platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or other court‑approved video conferencing tools. They allow judges, lawyers, witnesses, and litigants to participate remotely. These hearings can cover a wide range of matters, from bail applications and motions to full trials, depending on the court’s discretion.
Benefits of Virtual Hearings
- Reduced Delays: Remote participation eliminates travel time and scheduling conflicts, helping cases move faster.
- Cost Efficiency: Litigants and lawyers save on transportation and accommodation expenses.
- Access to Justice: Parties outside the court’s jurisdiction, including those abroad, can attend proceedings without barriers.
- Continuity of Proceedings: Courts can continue operations even during disruptions such as health crises or logistical challenges.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promise of virtual hearings, several challenges remain:
- Technical Limitations: Poor internet connectivity and inadequate hardware can disrupt proceedings.
- Legal Framework: Current laws and court rules need updating to fully accommodate digital hearings.
- Capacity Building: Judges, lawyers, and court staff require training in ICT tools to ensure smooth adoption.
Global and Local Context
Nigeria is not alone in this digital shift. Across the world, courts are increasingly adopting e‑filing and virtual proceedings to modernize justice delivery. In Nigeria, the COVID‑19 pandemic accelerated this trend, with Lagos State holding its first virtual murder trial in 2020. More recently, the Federal Capital Territory High Court issued practice directions to formalize virtual hearings, signaling a broader institutional commitment.
The Road Ahead
The CJN’s call is both timely and necessary. For Nigeria to fully benefit from virtual hearings, the judiciary must:
- Strengthen ICT infrastructure nationwide.
- Pass legislation that clearly defines the scope and legality of virtual proceedings.
- Provide mandatory training for legal practitioners and court staff.
If implemented effectively, virtual hearings could transform Nigeria’s justice system, making it faster, more transparent, and more accessible to all.
In summary: The CJN’s push for virtual hearings is a bold step toward modernizing Nigeria’s judiciary. While challenges remain, embracing digital justice could significantly reduce case delays and restore public confidence in the legal system.
