By Sunny A. David
Some prominent Anambra State lawyers have hailed the inauguration of the 18th Division of the Court of Appeal in Awka, the Anambra capital describing it as fulfilment of a dream
Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, (SAN), who was Chairman of the committee that worked to ensure the success of the exercise, while reacting to the inauguration during an interview said: “this is fulfilment of an arduous task.”
He said he was satisfied at the presence of the appellate court in Anambra State in the 29th year of state’s existence.
“I am happy and fulfilled,” he said, stressing, “It is a most rewarding experience to be part of the team that made this a reality.
“I commend Governor Willie Obiano for pursuing and actualising this vision with zeal and zest and I thank him for supporting the committee all through the work.’’
Dr. Ikpeazu added that the benefits of having a Division of the court the state had been enormous because besides saving lawyers and litigants from Anambra State the stress and risk of travelling to Enugu, the appellate court has essentially brought justice closer to the people. It is a boost to our judicial system.
“It will assist the litigants, the Lawyers and all who want justice. Remember we have only one Court of Appeal as others are Divisions.”
Chief Emeka Etiaba, SAN, said: “with the establishment of the Court of Appeal, 60 per cent of cases in Enugu are from Anambra and will be transferred to Awka.
“It will bring in development in the state and improve the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), through payment of their taxes.”
Another form of development it would bring would be granting employment opportunities to Ndi Anambra.
According to him, the junior cadre workers like cleaners, messengers and other personnel will be employed from the State.
Another lawyer, Barrister Nnamdi Ibegbu, SAN, said: “I am delighted to that court has finally arrived here in Awka.
“After many years of hardwork, I participated actively in the exercise. I even represented the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Barrister Paul Usoro, SAN, and read his address.
Hon Justice C.E Nwosu-Iheme JCA has been named as the Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal, Awka Division.
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