Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and ECOWAS Judicial Council Chairman, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has called for harmonisation of the region’s legal systems for enhanced integration and cooperation.
Ariwoola made the call at the ordinary session of the council statutory meeting held in Abuja, yesterday.
The CJN said the ECOWAS judicial council remained a beacon of hope and progress in the quest for justice and regional integration within West Africa.
According to him, the ECOWAS judicial council plays a crucial role in the resolution of disputes among member states, ensuring that conflicts are resolved peacefully according to the law.
“Through its tireless efforts to uphold the rule of law, promote judicial independence, and enhance access to justice, the council has made invaluable contributions to the advancement of democracy, human rights, and prosperity in the region,” said the CJN.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, in his welcome address, emphasised the critical role of the Community Court of Justice in addressing issues affecting the region’s effective operation.
Speaking before the council members, Touray highlighted the court’s significance as a reference point for ECOWAS institutions and governments, emphasising the need for excellence and high standards among judges.
He also called for deliberate action to address challenges in enforcing court judgments and stressed the importance of regular meetings to ensure the court’s activities benefit from continuous review and guidance.
Touray expressed appreciation to the President of Nigeria and the Chief Justice for their hospitality and support during the session.
Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi SAN, in his goodwill message emphasised the importance of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, considering the unique circumstances of member states and urged the court to avoid orders and judgments that may be difficult to enforce, practically.
He stressed the need to prioritise and deepen alternative dispute resolution mechanisms within the region to foster smoother conflict resolution processes.
Fagbemi encouraged the council and the court to continue investing in capacity-building initiatives for justices and relevant personnel to ensure the court was staffed with highly qualified and committed individuals, ultimately enhancing justice and promoting the objectives of ECOWAS while fostering cooperation and integration within the sub-region.
