Litigants in Anambra State have expressed frustration over the continued closure of the Federal High Court in Awka, which has remained shut since Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
The closure is reportedly in response to a renewed threat from Simon Ekpa, the leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRIGE), who demanded that the Federal Government release all detained Biafrans to the Southeast or face further disruptions, including the closure of courts across the region.
Several litigants, some of whom have experienced multiple adjournments due to previous judge transfers, voiced their dismay at the continuing delays.
They argued that, despite the recent appointment of new judges in Anambra, court operations have been stalled by the threat, leaving many cases in limbo.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, some litigants criticized the judiciary staff and other civil servants, alleging that they often use such situations as an excuse to avoid work.
While acknowledging that judges and lawyers are ready to proceed with hearings, they pointed out that the absence of court staff has hindered progress.
One litigant called the situation “unacceptable,” highlighting the irony that the state capital, which houses both the state police command and the seat of government, remains paralyzed by an external threat.
Chief Sylvanus, one of the frustrated litigants, said he was unaware of any new ultimatum issued by Ekpa, noting that the previous deadline had ended on October 27, 2024.
Another anonymous litigant questioned why a threat originating from Finland would be able to shut down courts in Nigeria, calling for greater security measures to ensure that court operations continue unaffected by external influences.
“Has Anambra State really become so lawless that an online threat can bring everything to a halt?” one litigant asked.
“Why isn’t the police stepping in to provide protection for the court and citizens?”
The litigants also noted that Federal High Courts in other Southeastern states, including Imo, Enugu, Abia, and Ebonyi, continue to operate without disruptions.
They expressed disappointment that Awka, the state capital, is the only one affected, calling the closure a “humiliation” for both the state and federal governments.
“This is an attack on the people of Anambra State,” one litigant stated.
“Thousands of cases are delayed, many of them involving people whose freedom or livelihood is at stake.The holiday season is approaching, and people who could be freed from detention remain locked up, while others wait for justice in cases affecting public welfare.”
They urged both federal and state authorities to take immediate action to secure the court and resume legal proceedings, emphasizing the need for swift action to prevent further disruptions to justice in the region.
