Senate Advances Bill to Increase Federal High Court Judges from 70 to 90
The Senate on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Federal High Court Act to increase the number of judges serving on the Federal High Court from 70 to 90.
The proposed legislation is aimed at strengthening the capacity of the judiciary to handle the growing volume of cases before the court and improve the administration of justice across the country.
Leading the debate on the bill, lawmakers emphasized the need to address delays in the judicial process caused by an increasing caseload and a shortage of judicial personnel. They noted that expanding the number of judges would help reduce case backlogs, speed up the delivery of judgments, and enhance access to justice for Nigerians.
The Federal High Court plays a critical role in adjudicating matters relating to constitutional issues, taxation, banking, maritime affairs, intellectual property, and other federal matters. Over the years, concerns have been raised about the workload on judges and the impact of judicial delays on litigants and businesses.
Senators who supported the bill argued that increasing the number of judges is necessary to meet the demands of a growing population and an expanding economy. They maintained that a stronger and more efficient judiciary is essential for upholding the rule of law and promoting public confidence in the justice system.
Following its successful second reading, the bill was referred to the appropriate Senate committee for further legislative scrutiny and public input before it returns to the chamber for consideration and possible passage.
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If eventually enacted into law, the amendment would raise the number of Federal High Court judges from the current 70 to 90, representing a significant expansion of the court’s judicial workforce.
