Abuja: Technology adaptation is critical for strengthening Nigeria’s justice system, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mohammed Ndarani, said on Tuesday. Ndarani emphasized the importance of integrating digital solutions to improve efficiency and transparency within the judiciary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ndarani highlighted that adopting technology in Nigeria’s justice system would facilitate faster case resolution and enhance transparency through digital tools. He warned that any reform lacking a technological foundation would be akin to “running around in circles while his house is on fire.”
Ndarani pointed out the urgency of embracing technology in an era defined by speed, innovation, and digital transformation. He expressed concern over the delays and unpredictability in court proceedings, which he described as distressing for both litigants and lawyers. He stressed the need for coordinated progress across the justice sector by deepening the digital capacity of the courts.
The Senior Advocate noted that the increasing number of legal cases often leads individuals to take the law into their own hands due to prolonged judicial processes. He underscored the growing challenge of technology-driven crimes that require rapid judicial adaptation and new skills. Ndarani called for structured schedules, disciplined adjournment practices, and fixed sitting hours to improve court predictability.
Ndarani also criticized the lack of maintenance of government infrastructures and questioned the status of virtual court sitting technology initiated by the Federal Government in 2021. This project aimed at speedy justice delivery, decongesting custodial centers, and ensuring the safety of inmates and law enforcement officers. He lamented the current state where many individuals remain remanded or awaiting trial for extended periods.
In conclusion, Ndarani advocated for the expansion of the e-affidavit and e-filing systems in all courts to modernize and harmonize operations. He emphasized the necessity to address bureaucratic inefficiencies and internal coordination gaps that undermine public confidence in justice delivery. He highlighted that digitization through virtual hearings, e-filing, and electronic case tracking would enhance modern justice delivery, reduce confusion, and ensure accurate information at all times.