By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
The Oyo State Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Munta Abimbola has inaugurated a committee for the setting up of a special court, 'Small Claims Court' (SCC)', to handle financial cases below N5 million for quick dispensation of justice.
Abimbola, who inaugurated the committee on Tuesday in Ibadan, said that the aim was also to provide stakeholders with an accessible, inexpensive and speedy resolution of financial disputes.
“The SCC is part of the Oyo State Judiciary reform agenda for effective and efficient administration of justice, the reduction of time for dispute resolution as well as improvement of transparency in the administration of justice.
“The court is designed to dispense matters within 30 days and judgment delivered within 14 days of conclusion of hearing; the entire proceedings from filling to judgment shall not exceed 60 days,’’ he said.
The chief judge noted that some of the advantages of the court was to entertain simple and debt recovery claims not exceeding five million naira and counter claim not exceeding ₦10 million.
Abimbola said that the committee chaired by Justice O. S. Adeyemi, would work out modalities for the establishment and operation of the court.
According to Abimbola, Mrs O.A. Ogunrin, DCR I Probate is the Secretary.
Other members of the committee are: Mrs A.A. Lawore-Akinyele –DCR I Magistrate, Mrs A. Adisa, DCR I I, Mrs Ebeloku- Mustapha DCR II, Mrs S.H. Adebisi- DCR II and Ms Suliat Salawudeen - Acting Director (Oyo State Multi-Door Courthouse) Asst. Secretary.
Abimbola said the Committee has the following terms of Reference: develop a suitable legal framework for the establishment of the Small Claims Court.
He added that it would also draw up the administrative structures and organogram for the Small Claims Court and develop, implement documents and processes for the operation of the SCC.
"The reference also include selection and set-up of Magistrate Courts to be designated as SCC, monitoring the day to day operations of the SCC, among others.
"The Committee was carefully selected based on your pedigrees as proficient Judicial Officers. I have no doubt that you would carry out the assignment to the best of your ability in the interest of Oyo State Judiciary and the Country.
"The Committee is expected to carry out the assignment and submit its report within 14 days from the day of inauguration.
"This Committee shall also be responsible for the monitoring of the operations of the Small Claims Court in line with Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) guidelines when the court is established or commissioned.
"With these few remarks, it is my honour to officially inaugurate the committee for the establishment and operations of the Small Claims Court. I wish you fruitful deliberations and God’s guidance," Abimbola said.
(NAN)
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