Litigants in Anambra State voiced frustration on Wednesday over the continued closure of the Federal High Court in Awka, which has reportedly remained shut since Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
The closure follows an alleged renewed threat from Simon Ekpa, leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRIGE), demanding the Federal Government return all detained Biafrans to the Southeast or face court closures across the region.
The litigants, who have endured prolonged adjournments due to judge transfers, expressed dismay that their cases are now delayed further due to alleged threats, even though new judges have resumed in Anambra.
Speaking to reporters in Awka, some litigants who requested anonymity accused judiciary workers and other civil servants of frequently seeking excuses not to report for duty.
While they acknowledged that judges and lawyers are prepared to proceed with cases, the litigants pointed out that hearings cannot resume until judiciary staff return to work. They described the situation as unacceptable, especially in a city that houses the state’s police command and is the seat of government.
Chief Sylvanus, one of the litigants, stated he was only aware of a previous ultimatum issued by Ekpa that ended on October 27, 2024, and had no knowledge of any new order. Another litigant, speaking anonymously, questioned why the High Court would close based on a threat purportedly from a distant location, such as Finland, and urged security agencies to protect citizens and court operations from undue influence.
“Has the Southeast, particularly Anambra State, become so lawless that someone can issue an online threat and people obey it?” he asked.
“Why aren’t police and security agencies providing adequate security for the court in Awka? The capital should not be at the mercy of threats from individuals or faceless groups.”
The litigants emphasized that Federal High Courts in other Southeast capitals, including Imo, Enugu, Abia, and Ebonyi, are operating without disruption. They criticized the closure in Awka as a “humiliation” for the state and federal governments and called on authorities to counter any such threats.
“This is sabotage against the people of Anambra State. People with pending cases are suffering due to this delay. Many need their cases resolved to resume their businesses. With the holiday season approaching, detainees who could be freed by the court remain in custody, and cases critical to public well-being are stalled,” one litigant remarked.
The group urged the Federal Government and state authorities to take immediate action, ensuring security for the court and preventing further delays for those seeking justice.