Coronavirus: CJN Orders Suspension Of Court Proceedings

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Ibrahim Muhammad, has issued a directive stating that all courts in Nigeria suspend all legal sessions in courtrooms to stem the spread of coronavirus.

This order was given on Monday evening.

A memo was sent out on Friday, directing all personnel and visitors including litigants, the press, lawyers, and orderlies to submit to the screening that is situated at the entrance of courtrooms.

The memo stated that “anyone who refuses to undergo temperature screening at the entrance should be sent back.”

Two weeks have been given for the closure of all court proceedings, and this is to take effect on Tuesday, March 24.

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The CJN said, “Further to my earlier circular Ref. No. NJC/CIR/HOC/II/629 dated 20th March 2020, on the above subject matter.   In view of the reality of the COVID-19 in the country and in order to take further preventive steps, all heads of courts are, from tomorrow, the 24th day of March 2020, directed to suspend court sittings for an initial period of two weeks at the first instance, except in matters that are urgent, essential or time-bound according to our extant laws,” he said.

“Your Lordships are hereby directed to bring the content of this circular to the notice of all stakeholders in justice administration, please.”