House Of Representatives Proposes 5-Year Tenure For CJN, Supreme Court Decentralization
The House of Representatives has introduced two significant bills aimed at reforming Nigeria’s judiciary. One bill proposes a five-year non-renewable tenure for heads of courts at federal and state levels, while the other seeks to decentralize the Supreme Court by creating five regional divisions.
Sponsored by Manu Soro, a representative from Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, the first bill (HB 1701) seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to provide a fixed term for judicial heads, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judges of the Federal High Court and state courts, as well as the Grand Khadi of Sharia Courts and Presidents of Customary Courts of Appeal.
Under the proposed law, these judicial leaders would serve for a single five-year term before either returning to their previous roles or retiring if they reach the retirement age.
The bill aims to enhance “service efficiency and motivation” while addressing concerns over prolonged tenures.
The second bill (HB 1731), also sponsored by Soro, proposes the establishment of five regional divisions of the Supreme Court to complement the current headquarters in Abuja.
If passed, the new divisions would be located in:
- Umuahia (South East)
- Bauchi (North East)
- Uyo (South South)
- Lagos (South West)
- Kano (North West)
Abuja would continue to serve as the apex court for the North Central region.
The bill’s explanatory memorandum emphasizes that this measure is intended to “bring access to the highest justice closer to the people, minimize logistical costs for litigants, and ensure timely resolution of cases.”
Both bills are part of the broader constitutional amendment process being overseen by the House Committee on Constitution Review. They have passed the first reading and will undergo further legislative scrutiny.
These proposed changes, if enacted, are expected to improve judicial efficiency, address logistical challenges, and enhance access to justice across Nigeria.
