The Chief Judge of Rivers State (CJ), Justice Simeon Amadi, has certified two new private Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centres.
The aim of the certification was to tackle the issue of delayed justice and reduce case congestion in courts,
These centres, Praeclarus Alternative Dispute Resolution Services and Harmony Arbitration, Mediation, and Peace Building Centre, are both located in Port Harcourt the capital city of Rivers State.
During the certificate presentation ceremony at the High Court Complex in Port Harcourt, Justice Amadi emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in ADR practices.
He warned that any violation of the regulations set by the Rivers State Multi-Door Courthouse (RSMDC) could lead to the revocation of their certification.
As the Chairman of the Governing Council of the RSMDC, he reiterated his commitment to easing the burden on the courts by promoting ADR as a quicker way to settle disputes.
Encouraging legal practitioners and the public to embrace ADR, Justice Amadi highlighted its efficiency in resolving conflicts without the delays often experienced in traditional court processes.
According to The Guardian report, Victor Nweke, the Director of the RSMDC, explained that the newly certified ADR centres met all necessary requirements before receiving their registration.
Nweke pointed out that their certification allows them to collaborate with the RSMDC, enabling the transfer of certain cases, including those referred by the court, to these centres.
According to Nweke, this partnership will not only ease the workload of the courts but also build public confidence in ADR as an effective means of conflict resolution.
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He further explained that rulings from these ADR centres will be recognized by the RSMDC and forwarded to the Chief Judge for legal validation, making the decisions legally binding.
Speaking on behalf of both ADR centres, Alice Lawrence-Nemi, leader of Praeclarus Alternative Dispute Resolution Services and former Rivers State Commissioner for Education, expressed gratitude for the judiciary’s support.
She assured that the centres would uphold the principles of fairness and professionalism in resolving disputes.
Lawrence-Nemi also acknowledged the Chief Judge’s efforts in advancing ADR in Rivers State, expressing hope that other states in the region would adopt similar measures to enhance access to justice.
