House of Representatives Monday said it was worrisome to note that the 2021 budget estimates for the Judiciary in the sum of N110 billion, which represents Statutory Transfer to the Judiciary, was inadequate in view of current realities.
Chairman, House Committee on Federal Judiciary, Luke Onofiok expressed this worry at the budget defence session with the Judiciary the National Judicial Council (NJC) at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
Onofiok assured that the Committee will engage the Leadership of the House, and the entire National Assembly for more funds for the Judiciary to address the observed and obvious challenges of the sector for expedited and efficient dispensation of justice in the country.
The Akwa Ibom lawmaker said there is need for the adequate funding of the Judiciary in order for it to independently carry out its constitutional mandate of check and balances, settlement of disputes and protection of fundamental rights of citizens.
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He expressed hope that the recent appointment and confirmation of 8 Justices of the Supreme Court will help in fast-tracking administration and delivery of justice.
Onofiok said: “The Committee is aware of the challenges of the Judiciary as exacerbated by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with security challenges, occasioned by prevailing restiveness that undoubtedly slowed down development in every aspect of our national lives. The recent security threats to Judges, denigration of the sanctity of courts and vandalization of court infrastructure are few examples. These destructive acts are highly condemnable and call for concerted action.
‘’The destruction of Court by hoodlums that hijacked the ENDSARS protest has once again brought to fore the exigency of automating our court system right from the filing process to judgement delivery. The incident has led to the loss of some vital court documents in some courts, which will stall several lawsuits and trials.
“There is urgent need to implement electronic filing of court process, electronic recording and transcription of court proceedings and electronic collection of judgment and having a central saver that backs up court processes and documents and synchronise data across all remote locations. This will expedite justice delivery and forestall loss of court documents.
