In a bid to foster speedy resolution of disputes in Imo State, the Community Justice Centre has been flagged off to provide speedy and people-centred justice services for residents.
The centre, funded by the Hague Institute for Innovation of Law is in collaboration with the Nkemjika Development Foundation and the Community Justice Centre steering committee to address justice needs quickly and affordably.
HIIL Country Representative, Dr Ijeoma Nwafor made the disclosure during a press conference alongside other members of the Community Justice Centre steering committee and Nkemjika Foundation in Owerri, the Imo State capital last week.
Dr Nwafor averred that residents of Imo State via the Community Justice Centre can bring disputes and have access to resolve legal issues, particularly issues centred on domestic violence, family disputes, and land matters, noting that the initiative was designed to serve as a model for community-driven justice reforms across Nigeria, using alternative dispute resolution methods.
Nwafor said the pressing justice needs in Imo State were “domestic violence, family disputes, and land issues,” adding that it was a pilot scheme.
She disclosed that the CJC was established following an extensive justice innovation lab that convened justice sector leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations, traditional and religious institutions during which they identified the pressing justice needs in the state.
She said, “The Community Justice Centre represents a significant milestone in our commitment to ensuring that justice is not only accessible but also responsive to the needs of the people of Imo State. By integrating community-driven solutions with institutional support, we are strengthening trust in the justice system.
“Today, the CJC opens its doors for the pilot phase, with the potential for expansion to additional locations across Imo State based on its success and impact. This phased implementation allows for testing, refinement, and scaling to enhance its effectiveness in addressing justice needs state-wide.
A multi-sectoral steering committee will provide strategic guidance, ensuring the centre operates efficiently, sustainably, and in coordination with justice institutions for seamless referrals and support.”
She said people with justice needs can visit the office at CJC Building, 5047-5049 All Seasons Avenue, Commercial District G, New Owerri, or call via 08168667544 or use the app Imojustmove.org to lodge complaints and foster amicable solutions free.
Nwafor added, “Legal services will be pocket-friendly and at a highly discounted rate. We want it to be free but if not, it will be hugely discounted.”
She said HIIL will provide funding and technical support for the Community Justice Centre while it will be implemented by the Nkemjika Development Foundation with advisory support from the CJC steering committee.
The CJC will bring together lawyers, psychologists, and other justice response personnel to proffer justice needs for free.
A member of the steering committee, Mrs Amaka Nnah said the Community Justice Centre was an innovation to help solve justice problems, decongest the courts, and speedily and freely.
Ms Chimamanda who represented NDF assured that confidentiality of issues was guaranteed, adding that the centre will help people access justice and retain relationships that would have turned sour during litigation processes.
