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The Zamfara State Government has adopted the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Zamfara Multi-Door Courthouse (ZMDC) as part of efforts to strengthen the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system in the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Musa Garba, disclosed this during the adoption of the SOP for the ZMDC in Gusau on Thursday.
He said the Zamfara State House of Assembly had already passed the bill for the establishment of the Multi-Door Courthouse, “which is currently awaiting the assent of the state governor”.
Garba further said that the document would guide the operations of the ADR centre and ensure the smooth handling of cases.
“You know, the SOP provides detailed procedures on how complaints will be filed, handled and resolved at the centre.
“The ADR mechanism will focus mainly on civil matters and help reduce the number of cases pending before conventional courts.
“The ADR centre will handle disputes related to matrimonial issues, disagreements between individuals and financial transactions,” he explained.
He added that cases brought before the centre would be resolved within a limited timeframe to encourage quick and amicable settlements.
“The document outlines the responsibilities of arbitrators and other actors involved in the process, ensuring fairness and efficiency in resolving disputes.
“The intention of this document is to regulate and guide the centre on how to receive complaints, handle cases and ensure their proper disposal,” he explained.
He commended an NGO, International Alert, for supporting the state to establish a Multi-Door Courthouse to strengthen the ADR system in the state.
Also speaking, a representative of International Alert, Mr Stephen John, said the organisation had been supporting Zamfara and Katsina states in promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to improve access to justice.
Various stakeholders who participated in the event included representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), traditional rulers, CSOs, the media, and other justice sector actors.
