Peter Mbah Commissions Digital Court Complex, Reaffirms Commitment to Judicial Financial Autonomy in Enugu
The Enugu State Government has taken another step toward judicial reform with the commissioning of a new digital court building by Governor Peter Mbah. The governor described the project as a significant milestone in his administration’s efforts to strengthen justice delivery through technological innovation and institutional independence.
The inauguration took place during ceremonies and a special court session marking the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Enugu State Judiciary at the state’s judicial complex in Enugu. Governor Mbah was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.
Speaking at the occasion, the governor said the integration of technology into court processes, combined with judicial financial autonomy already in operation in Enugu State, would help ensure that the judiciary is not only independent in structure but also effective in performance. According to him, the goal of his administration is to build a judiciary that is independent, efficient, technology-driven, and focused on serving the people.
Mbah noted that the theme of the event, “Enugu State Judiciary: Ushering in a New Era of Efficient Justice Delivery through Technological Integration and Financial Autonomy,” aligned closely with his administration’s vision from inception to modernise governance and strengthen public institutions.
He explained that the newly inaugurated facility comprises four ultra-modern court halls designed to decongest existing courtrooms, improve working conditions for judicial officers and court staff, and enhance the overall efficiency and dignity of judicial proceedings.
Related News
300-Bed Enugu International Hospital Approaches Completion Amid Public Reactions
Construction of the 300-bed Enugu International Hospital is nearing completion, with officials and residents expressing optimism that the facility will…
Anambra Government Seals Shops in Onitsha Markets Over Monday Closure, Commends Compliant Traders
The Anambra State Government has sealed several shops across markets in Onitsha and nearby communities after traders failed to open…
Governor Otti Commissions Key Infrastructure Projects in Abia, Announces New SSG Appointment
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has commissioned major road and bridge projects in Arochukwu Local Government Area, announcing new leadership…
“These court halls are not merely physical structures,” the governor said. “They are purpose-built facilities equipped with digital recording systems, smart displays, secure data connectivity, and ergonomic designs that meet contemporary standards for modern courts. They represent our commitment to creating an enabling environment for justice delivery.”
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena, reminded judicial officers of their responsibility as custodians of justice and what he described as the “last hope of the common man.” He urged members of the judiciary to uphold the rule of law with integrity, professionalism, and zero tolerance for corruption.
Justice Ozoemena said the judiciary in Enugu State had embarked on comprehensive reforms aimed at improving service delivery and restoring public confidence in the justice system. He commended Governor Mbah for providing consistent support to the judiciary, noting that meaningful reform required more than minor adjustments.
“What was needed was a comprehensive rethinking of how cases move through the justice system,” the Chief Judge said. “Our need was met by the vision of His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, who identified the judiciary as a key area of focus from the inception of his administration.”
He announced the formal launch of a digital justice platform that would transform how cases are filed, processed, heard, recorded, and concluded across Enugu State’s justice sector. According to him, the reform covers the High Court of Justice, Customary Court of Appeal, Chief Magistrates’ Courts, Customary Courts, the Multi-Door Courthouse, and the Ministry of Justice. It also extends to public-facing services such as the Probate Division and Affidavit Sections.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Osinachi Nnajieze, also praised the governor’s support for the justice sector, describing it as a foundation for good governance, economic growth, and social order.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Enugu State Judiciary, had led a wide-ranging digitalisation drive. This includes the development of several digital court solutions such as an e-Litigation System, e-Affidavit System, Virtual Court Hearing System, e-Probate, and e-Lis Pendens, all of which are currently undergoing advanced testing.
Nnajieze added that the reforms also include full electronic filing, assessment, payment, and assignment of cases, as well as the recruitment and training of 39 verbatim court reporters to improve the accuracy of courtroom records.
The commissioning of the digital court complex comes amid growing national conversations around judicial independence, court efficiency, and the role of technology in strengthening access to justice across Nigeria.