EDO STATE JUDICIARY (COVID-19) PANDEMIC PERIOD AND BEYOND) PRACTICE DIRECTIONS FOR COURT SITTINGS OF 2020
LAWS OF EDO STATE
In exercise of the powers conferred on me as the Chief Judge by Sections 6(6) and Section 274 of 1999 Constitution, Section 53 (1) of the High Court Law, Cap. 65, Volume III, Laws of defunct Bendel State of Nigeria 1976, applicable in Edo State of Nigeria by virtue of Section 4 of Act No. 41 of 1991; Section 49 of the Magistrates’ Courts Law, Section 68 of the Customary Courts Law No. 2 of 1984 and by virtue of all other laws enabling me in that behalf, I, HONOURABLE JUSTICE ESTHER AMENAGHAWON EDIGIN, CHIEF JUDGE of Edo State of Nigeria, do hereby give the following directions:
INTRODUCTION
There is no gainsaying the fact that the effect of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic will remain with the human race for a time beyond prediction. In view of this, it has become imperative to take necessary measures that would ensure courts in Edo State reopen and continue to sit within the limitations as directed by relevant agencies and government. These Practice Directions shall apply to and guide the sittings of all courts in Edo State in Civil and Criminal matters during the critical phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and when it has become difficult for normal physical interaction amongst persons till such a time when relevant agencies and government determine and declare that normal interactions resume.
A. COURT PREMISES
1. The Chief Judge shall liaise with relevant security agencies to ensure that the entrance(s) to court premises are well manned by security personnel and entry into the premises are regulated in a manner that guarantees and enforces the minimum 2-meter (6 feet) distance between persons as it relates to all entrants into the premises.