The Supreme Court of Nigeria is the highest judicial authority in Nigeria and serves as the final court of appeal. Here are some key points about the Supreme Court of Nigeria:
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- Establishment: The Supreme Court was established by Section 230 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
- Mandate and Jurisdiction:
- Appellate Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has the authority to hear and determine appeals from decisions of the Court of Appeal and other lower courts. It serves as the final court of appeal in Nigeria.
- Original Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in cases involving disputes between the federal government and states, or between states. It also has original jurisdiction in matters related to the interpretation of the Constitution.
- Advisory Jurisdiction: The President of Nigeria may refer questions of law or fact to the Supreme Court for its opinion, although this power is seldom exercised.
- Composition:
- The Supreme Court is composed of the Chief Justice of Nigeria and such number of Justices as may be prescribed by the National Assembly. Currently, the number is set at 21 Justices.
- Justices are appointed by the President of Nigeria on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and are confirmed by the Senate.
- Appointment and Tenure:
- Justices of the Supreme Court are appointed from among those who have been legal practitioners in Nigeria for at least 15 years.
- Justices serve until the mandatory retirement age of 70.
- Significance:
- As the apex court, the Supreme Court’s decisions are final and binding on all other courts in Nigeria.
- It plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution, shaping the law, and ensuring justice is administered uniformly across the country.
- The Court’s decisions often have significant political, social, and economic implications.
- Procedures:
- Cases are brought to the Supreme Court on appeal from the Court of Appeal. In cases of original jurisdiction, parties file directly to the Supreme Court.
- Decisions are typically made by panels of at least five Justices, although important constitutional cases may be heard by a full bench.
- Challenges:
- The Supreme Court faces challenges such as a heavy caseload, delays in the justice delivery system, and the need for continuous reform to improve efficiency and transparency.
- Landmark Cases: The Supreme Court has delivered numerous landmark judgments that have shaped Nigerian law and governance, including decisions on electoral disputes, constitutional interpretations, and human rights issues.
- Recent Developments: The Court continues to evolve with technological advancements, including the digitization of case management and court proceedings to enhance efficiency and accessibility
CONTACTS
- Phone Number: 07039983117
- Email: info@supremecourt.gov.ng
- Address: Three Arms Zone, PMB 308, Abuja, Nigeria.
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