NJC extends suspension of court sittings till further notice in view of the Coronavirus Lockdown

The National Judicial Council has extended the suspension of court sittings across the country till further notice, in view of the Coronavirus lockdown order.

The extension was disclosed in a circular to all heads of courts signed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Tanko Muhammad, on Tuesday, April 7.

However, the CJN stated that courts were expected to sit particularly when it had to do with dispensing matters that were urgent, essential or time-bound in line with extant laws.

The document reads: “In tandem with the COVlD-19 Regulations 2020 and as a preventive measure against the spread of the virus in the country, the CJN had by a circular No. NJC/CIR/HOC/11/656, dated 23rd March 2020 directed all heads of courts to suspend court sittings for an initial period of two weeks from 24th March 2020.

“In view of that, I’m aware that the initial period of two weeks suspension of court sittings will expire on 7th April 2020.

“l hereby extend the suspension of court sittings till further notice given the lockdown measure put in place by the federal and some states governments to curb the spread of COVlD-19.

“Your Lordships are, however, to note that courts are expected to sit particularly to dispense matters that are urgent, essential or time-bound in line with our constitution.

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