E-Filing To Reduce Delays, Boost Access To Justice – FCT Chief Judge

Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, has said the introduction of an electronic filing and case management system will transform how magistrates’ courts operate in the nation’s capital.

At a stakeholders’ review and validation meeting in Abuja yesterday, the chief judge said the new platform would cut paperwork delays, streamline processes, and make justice more accessible to the ordinary citizens.

The validation session showcased Docket Master, the new e-filing software designed to handle court records, criminal cases, and administrative processes. Developers gave a step-by-step demonstration, while stakeholders were invited to critique and fine-tune the system before full deployment.

Baba-Yusuf, who was represented by Rev. Fr. Okolie Bede,said :“We cannot shy away from technology. It is our commitment to leverage it for improved service delivery.

“This milestone marks a major leap forward in our journey towards digital transformation”.

In her goodwill message,Lucy James Abagi, chief executive of the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), described the initiative as a game-changer.

Represented by PPDC programme officer,Onyeka Oduye, he said: “We are committed to building a justice system that is fair, efficient, and accountable. Docket Master will help end unnecessary detention by speeding up court processes.”

“Before the full-scale deployment of the system, it is essential to subject it to a thorough presentation and validation exercise.

“This will enable us to confirm that Docket Master meets all functional requirements, aligns with court processes, and effectively addresses the long-standing gaps that have contributed to unnecessary and prolonged custodial detention in Nigeria.”

NBA president Mazi Afam Osigwe, represented by the association’s general secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, said magistrates’ courts remain the first point of contact for most citizens.

“They represent the face of justice,if we can get the magistrates’ courts right, we can begin to restore confidence in our justice system.”