By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi, has inaugurated panels for the last quarter session of the quarterly appeal sittings of the state High Court of Justice.
Speaking at the High Court Complex in Lokoja, Justice Majebi explained that the panels are mandated to hear appeals emanating from lower courts across the state. The sessions will hold in the six judicial divisions between December 1 and 5, 2025.
Addressing the panel judges, Majebi said the quarterly appeal sessions were designed to review cases handled by lower courts, stressing the importance of diligence and commitment.
“We insist that these sessions must be held quarterly in each legal year. I want you to put in your best because all the judges designated at the six judicial divisions are already waiting to commence the session after this inauguration,” he said.
The Chief Judge underscored the sacrifices made by judicial officers, noting that their service could never be fully compensated. He urged lawyers appearing before the panels to avoid late filings and frivolous applications that could delay proceedings.
“When you know you should have filed an appeal before today and you didn’t, none of my judges will take that. Be humble enough to do the needful,” he cautioned.
Justice Majebi commended the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lokoja Branch, for its successful Law Week and praised the committee reviewing the new High Court Civil Procedure Rules. He reiterated the need for synergy between the Bench and the Bar to ensure effective justice delivery in the state, noting that no issues had been recorded against lawyers during previous appeal sessions.
Responding on behalf of the NBA, Vice Chairman M.S. Inuwa, Esq., thanked the Chief Judge and the High Court for constituting the appellate panels.
“My lord can confirm that the lower court judges have improved because they know their decisions can now be reviewed. We are very grateful for the impact this is making on justice delivery in the state,” he said.
A total of 129 cases will be determined by the six panels across the state, with Lokoja handling 54 cases, Ankpa 36, and Idah 16, while Okene, Anyigba, and Kabba Divisions will each handle a considerable number of cases.
