The Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) has called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to urgently address the outdated practice of manual court recording in Nigerian courts. The CSLS described this practice as unacceptable in the modern era and emphasized the need for technological solutions to enhance justice delivery.

In a media briefing in Abuja, Prof Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), President of the CSLS, voiced concerns over the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s justice system, highlighting that one of the major causes of delays in the administration of justice is the working conditions of judges.

Akinseye-George pointed out that, despite technological advancements, judges continue to rely on longhand recordings for court proceedings. He stressed that the continued use of manual recording is no longer acceptable, urging the CJN to adopt digital solutions that would expedite and enhance justice delivery. He added, “If we can use technology to enhance efficiency in our personal and professional lives, there is no justification for failing to apply it in the courtrooms.”

The senior lawyer called for the nationwide adoption of E-filing and other digital solutions, such as E-service of documents, E-assignment of cases, and E-transcription of proceedings. These reforms, he believes, are critical to improving efficiency in the Nigerian judiciary.

Akinseye-George also outlined plans for a National Sensitisation Webinar and National Technical Review and Evaluation Conference (NTREC) scheduled for February 25-27, 2025. These events will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and the Administration of Criminal Justice Laws (ACJLs) across Nigeria.

The CSLS President emphasized that the webinar will help raise awareness about National Minimum Standards and provide a platform for discussion, while the NTREC will assess compliance, share insights, and identify solutions to challenges in implementing judicial reforms.

“During the National Sensitisation Webinar, we will present findings from our 2024 Baseline Study on ACJ legislation and share updates from various states. These reports will be verified by our ACJA Rangers, who monitor nationwide compliance,” Akinseye-George concluded.