Zamfara stakeholders adopt SOP for multi-door courthouse operations
By IBRAHIM KANOMA, Gusau
“The intention of this document is to regulate and guide the centre on how to receive complaints, handle cases and ensure their proper resolution,” he said.
Stakeholders in Zamfara State have adopted a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide the operations of the Zamfara Multi-Door Courthouse (ZMDC), in a move aimed at strengthening the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system in the state.
The SOP was adopted during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the State Ministry of Justice in Gusau. Participants at the meeting included representatives from the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), traditional rulers, civil society organisations, religious leaders, legal practitioners and journalists.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Musa Garba Bukkuyum, said the document would serve as a guide for the smooth operation of ADR centres and enhance access to justice.
He explained that the SOP provides detailed procedures for filing, handling and resolving complaints brought before the centre.
According to him, the ADR mechanism will mainly focus on civil matters and help reduce the backlog of cases in conventional courts.
Bukkuyum said the centre would handle disputes such as matrimonial issues, disagreements between individuals and financial transactions. He added that cases referred to the centre would be resolved within a specified timeframe to encourage quick and amicable settlements.
He noted that the document also outlines the responsibilities of arbitrators and other actors involved in the dispute resolution process to ensure fairness and efficiency.
“The intention of this document is to regulate and guide the centre on how to receive complaints, handle cases and ensure their proper resolution,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary commended International Alert for supporting the Zamfara State Government in the establishment of the ADR system.
He also disclosed that the Zamfara State House of Assembly had passed the bill for the establishment of the Multi-Door Courthouse, which is currently awaiting the assent of the state governor.
Also speaking, a representative of International Alert, Stephen John, said the organisation has been supporting Zamfara and Katsina states in promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to improve access to justice.
He explained that the SOP clearly defines how cases will be referred to the centre and the roles of key stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders as well as security agencies.
According to him, the ADR centre will offer a faster and more affordable platform for resolving disputes outside the lengthy court process.
He added that the initiative would help ensure timely justice and prevent conflicts from escalating within communities.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that the adoption of the SOP would enhance the effective operation of the Zamfara Multi-Door Courthouse and promote peaceful settlement of disputes across the state.
