The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Owerri branch, has called for the temporary suspension of activities at the Justice Oputa High Court due to safety concerns arising from structural defects in the building.
Addressing lawyers and litigants on Friday, NBA Owerri Chairman, Barrister Chris Ihentuge, cited repeated vibrations during court sittings, raising fears about the building’s structural integrity.
The court, constructed under the administration of former Governor Rochas Okorocha, has faced longstanding concerns over its safety. Ihentuge revealed that multiple judges, including Justice Onyeukwu, had recently complained about noticeable tremors while court was in session.
“I have been reliably informed that while court was sitting yesterday, the building was vibrating. The Chief Registrar confirmed that Justice Onyeukwu had complained about it. Another judge also reported a similar incident two days ago. This issue has existed since the building was put to use, yet no action has been taken,” Ihentuge stated.
In light of these risks, he urged that court activities be suspended for at least one week to allow structural experts to assess the building’s safety.
“We cannot risk our lives. One week will not kill us. Let experts certify that this building is fit before we continue using it,” he added.
Beyond safety concerns, Ihentuge criticized the prolonged absence of a Chief Judge in Imo State, stating that the judiciary has lacked leadership for nearly three months.
“We cannot remain without a leader. This is why the system is failing—who do we even complain to?” he asked.
He further decried the poor working conditions at the courthouse, highlighting poor ventilation, lack of lighting, and inadequate facilities.
“Judges are not sitting because there is no light. You need a torchlight to walk the stairs in the daytime. We remove our wigs and gowns because there is no fan. Nothing is working.”
Allegations have also surfaced that the court building was initially designed as a hotel before being repurposed, contributing to its poor ventilation and infrastructure issues.
The NBA Owerri branch has now issued a formal warning to lawyers and litigants, emphasizing that it is unsafe to continue using the building in its current state.
