The Federal High Court in Abuja is a significant pillar in the Nigerian judicial system, serving as one of the most critical courts in the country. This court is integral to the administration of justice in Nigeria, particularly in matters that fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal government. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of the Federal High Court Abuja, including its history, jurisdiction, structure, functions, and how it operates.
The Federal High Court Abuja
Overview and History of the Federal High Court Abuja
The Federal High Court was established under the Federal Revenue Court Decree No.13 of 1973, which later evolved into the current Federal High Court by virtue of the Federal High Court Act of 1973. The court was created to address the need for a specialized court to handle federal matters, thereby relieving the burden on the regular courts. The court’s jurisdiction has expanded over the years through various amendments to the Constitution, making it one of the most versatile courts in Nigeria.
The Chief Judge of The High Court
Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho is the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Born on June 24, 1959, in Mbaduku, Vandeikya LGA, Benue State, he has had a distinguished career in the judiciary. Justice Tsoho obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Lagos in 1984 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985.
He began his judicial career as a Magistrate in the Benue State Judiciary and rose through the ranks to become a Judge of the Federal High Court on November 12, 1998. He was appointed Chief Judge of the Federal High Court on December 13, 2019. Known for his integrity and dedication, Justice Tsoho has contributed significantly to the Nigerian legal system.
Jurisdiction of the Federal High Court Abuja
The Federal High Court has jurisdiction over matters that involve the federal government or any of its agencies. According to Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the court has exclusive jurisdiction in matters relating to:
- Revenue of the federal government and its agencies.
- Taxation of companies and other corporate bodies.
- Customs and excise duties, export duties, and related financial matters.
- Banking, foreign exchange, and other monetary matters.
- The operation of federal laws on companies and other corporations.
- Admiralty jurisdiction, including shipping and navigation.
- Intellectual property matters such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
- Citizenship, immigration, and naturalization issues.
- The regulation of labor, employment, and industrial relations at the federal level.
- Arms, ammunition, explosives, and related issues.
- Mines and minerals, including oil fields, oil mining, geological surveys, and natural gas.
- Criminal causes and matters in respect of any of the issues listed above.
This expansive jurisdiction makes the Federal High Court Abuja a key player in the interpretation and enforcement of federal laws.
Structure of the Federal High Court Abuja
The Federal High Court is a single court with divisions across all states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The court is presided over by a Chief Judge, who is appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC). The Chief Judge oversees the administration of the court and the allocation of cases.
Each division of the Federal High Court is headed by a judge, and the Abuja division is one of the most prominent, given its location in the capital. Judges of the Federal High Court are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the NJC, and they must have at least 10 years of post-call experience as legal practitioners.
The court is divided into various judicial divisions, each of which handles specific types of cases. The divisions include:
- Civil Division: Handles civil cases involving federal laws and disputes.
- Criminal Division: Deals with criminal cases that fall under the federal jurisdiction.
- Admiralty Division: Handles cases related to shipping, navigation, and maritime law.
- Intellectual Property Division: Focuses on matters related to trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
- Revenue Division: Deals with taxation, customs, and other revenue-related cases.
Functions and Responsibilities of the Federal High Court Abuja
The Federal High Court Abuja has several key functions, including:
1. Interpretation of Federal Laws: The court plays a crucial role in interpreting the laws passed by the National Assembly and ensuring their proper application.
2. Enforcement of Rights: The court is instrumental in enforcing the rights of individuals and entities under federal laws.
3. Judicial Review: The court has the power to review the actions of federal agencies and ensure they comply with the law.
4. Dispute Resolution: The court resolves disputes involving the federal government, its agencies, and other parties.
5. Criminal Prosecution: The court handles criminal prosecutions initiated by the federal government, especially in cases involving corruption, terrorism, and other serious offenses.
Departments and Their Functions
1. Litigation Department
The Litigation Department at the Federal High Court Abuja plays a crucial role in justice delivery and court operations. Located on the third floor of the court’s headquarters complex, this department is essential for managing legal processes and maintaining the integrity of court proceedings. It includes several key units:
- Bail Unit: Handles bail perfection, verification of bail documents, and signing of recognizance forms.
- Deputy Sheriff: Acts as the initial contact for lawyers, manages filing processes, and executes court orders and judgments.
- Revenue/Cash Office: Responsible for generating Remittal Retrieval References (RRR), processing payments, stamping documents, and managing financial records.
- Appeal Unit: Manages the compilation, transmission, and certification of records of appeal.
- Process Unit: Oversees the opening, categorization, and dispatch of case files, and maintains records.
- Commissioner for Oaths: Verifies and commissions affidavits and court documents, and handles personal affidavits from the public.
2. Administration Department
The Administration Department ensures effective human resource management and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Headed by a Deputy Chief Registrar, it handles employment, promotion, welfare, and retirement of staff, and includes thirteen units such as Open Registry, Records, Promotion & Discipline, Pension & Gazette, and more.
3. Procurement Department
Led by Deputy Director Mrs. Yetunde Oluremi Osho, the Procurement Department manages the acquisition of goods and services for the court. It operates in accordance with the Procurement Act of 2007 and is divided into sections for procurement planning, contract management, and stock verification.
4. Finance and Accounts Department
Under the leadership of Director Mr. Ibrahim Dankande FCNA, this department manages financial systems and controls within the court. It handles payroll, budgeting, pension and tax matters, revenue, and other financial operations.
5. Library & Information Services Department
The Library & Information Services Department, overseen by Director Mr. Samuel Ibrahim Pwasi, provides essential research and information services. It manages the headquarters library and 38 divisional libraries, offering resources like legal texts, judgments, and electronic databases.
6. Training Department
Established to enhance staff skills, the Training Department, headed by E.C. Onyekwere Esq, organizes training programs for senior and junior staff. It supports the court’s commitment to continuous professional development.
How the Federal High Court Abuja Operates
The operation of the Federal High Court Abuja is guided by the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules and other relevant laws. Cases are usually initiated by filing a writ of summons or other originating processes. Once a case is filed, it is assigned to a judge, who will then set a date for hearing.
The court operates on the principles of fairness, impartiality, and justice. It provides a platform for individuals and entities to seek redress for grievances that fall under its jurisdiction. The court’s proceedings are public, but in certain circumstances, cases may be heard in camera (in private) if it is in the interest of justice.
The court’s decisions are binding on all parties involved, but they can be appealed to the Court of Appeal and, ultimately, the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Important Information for Litigants and Legal Practitioners
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If you are planning to file a case or have a matter to be resolved at the Federal High Court Abuja, here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Filing Fees: There are fees associated with filing cases at the Federal High Court, and these vary depending on the type of case and the relief sought.
- Legal Representation: It is advisable to have a legal practitioner represent you, as the court’s procedures can be complex.
- Case Management: The court uses a case management system to ensure that cases are handled efficiently and within a reasonable time.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): The court encourages the use of ADR mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve disputes without going to full trial.
Get in Touch
Open: Monday – Friday from 8am – 4pm
Address: Shehu Shagari Way, Central District, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
Phone: +234 807 460 1579
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: FHC Headquarters
Instagram: @fhc_hq
Website: www.fhc.gov.ng
Frequently Asked Questions About The Federal High Court Abuja
1. What are the operating hours of the Federal High Court Abuja?
The Federal High Court Abuja is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
2. Where is the Federal High Court Abuja located?
The court is located on Shehu Shagari Way, Central District, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria.
3. How can I contact the Federal High Court Abuja?
You can reach them by phone at +234 807 460 1579 or via email at [email protected].
4. What are the main departments within the Federal High Court Abuja?
Key departments include the Litigation Department, Administration Department, Procurement Department, Finance and Accounts Department, Library & Information Services Department, and Training Department.
5. What services does the Litigation Department provide?
The Litigation Department handles bail processing, court orders and judgments execution, revenue collection, and appeals. It includes units such as Bail Unit, Deputy Sheriff, Revenue/Cash Office, Appeal Unit, Process Unit, and Commissioner for Oaths.
6. What functions are performed by the Administration Department?
The Administration Department oversees human resources matters, including staff employment, promotion, discipline, welfare, and retirement. It also manages various administrative functions through its units like Promotion & Discipline, Pension & Gazette, and Security.
7. What is the role of the Procurement Department?
The Procurement Department handles the acquisition of goods and services in compliance with the Procurement Act of 2007. It is responsible for planning, contract management, and stock verification.
8. What does the Finance and Accounts Department manage?
This department ensures proper accounting systems and controls, including payroll, budget management, pension and tax matters, and bank reconciliation.
9. What services does the Library & Information Services Department offer?
The department provides reference services, current awareness, selective dissemination of information, internet access, electronic databases, and publication services.
10. What is the purpose of the Training Department?
The Training Department focuses on the training and development of court staff. It manages senior and junior staff training programs in collaboration with the Training Committee.
Wrap Up
The Federal High Court Abuja plays a vital role in the Nigerian judicial system by handling cases that have significant implications for the country. Its jurisdiction over federal matters makes it a crucial institution for upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served.
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