Rules & Procedures

The practice and procedures of the Kogi State Customary Court of Appeal are firmly guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the rules established by the Hon. President of the Court in accordance with Section 284 of the 1999 Constitution. These provisions ensure that every litigant receives a fair hearing, that due process is upheld, and that justice is administered with consistency and transparency.

Jurisdiction of the Court

The Court exercises appellate and supervisory jurisdiction in civil matters that involve questions of customary law. Appeals may be brought before the Court from decisions of the Upper Area Courts or the High Court, provided the issues under review are rooted in customary practices, traditions, or disputes recognized under customary law. This jurisdiction ensures that the customs of the people are preserved and respected while harmonizing them with constitutional justice.

Filing an Appeal

To initiate an appeal before the Customary Court of Appeal, litigants must comply with the rules of practice and procedure as set out by the Court. Filing involves the submission of a notice of appeal, relevant documentation, and certified copies of the judgment being appealed. Timelines are strictly observed, and appellants are expected to file within the prescribed period to avoid dismissal of their case.

Registries at the Court headquarters in Lokoja and all divisional offices are open to provide assistance with filing procedures. Court staff are available to guide litigants and practitioners through the proper steps, ensuring compliance with established rules.

Documentation and Timelines

Every appeal must be accompanied by the appropriate documents, including grounds of appeal, records of proceedings, and supporting evidence. The Court operates on strict timelines to promote speedy dispensation of justice. Once an appeal is filed, the registry sets deadlines for submissions, responses, and the scheduling of hearings. Litigants and their counsel are expected to comply with these deadlines to ensure an efficient process.

Hearing and Conduct of Cases

Hearings before the Kogi State Customary Court of Appeal are conducted with the highest standards of judicial integrity, ensuring fairness, transparency, and respect for all parties involved. Each sitting of the Court follows well-established procedures that balance constitutional requirements with the recognition of the cultural values and traditions that define the people of Kogi State.

When an appeal is brought before the Court, the judges carefully examine the grounds of appeal, review the records of proceedings from the lower courts, and listen attentively to the arguments presented by counsel and litigants. Every case is treated with impartiality, and the Court provides equal opportunity for both appellants and respondents to present their positions fully.

The process of hearing cases is guided not only by statutory laws and constitutional provisions but also by the customs and usages that form the basis of the dispute. This unique blend ensures that judgments are not only legally sound but also culturally relevant, providing justice that resonates with the communities concerned.

All proceedings of the Court are officially recorded to maintain accuracy, accountability, and transparency. After a thorough consideration of the facts and arguments, judgments are delivered in line with judicial best practices, offering clear reasoning that reinforces public confidence in the judiciary.

Through this process, the Customary Court of Appeal affirms its role as a trusted arbiter, safeguarding both the rule of law and the traditions of the people while ensuring that justice is seen to be done in every matter brought before it.

Access to Forms and Rules

All forms required for filing appeals and related applications are readily available at the registries of the Court’s headquarters in Lokoja as well as in all divisional offices across the state. These documents provide clear guidance on the proper procedures to be followed, helping litigants and legal practitioners prepare their cases effectively.

For greater convenience, the Court has also made these forms and procedural guides available for download directly from this website. By ensuring easy access to these resources both in person and online, the Kogi State Customary Court of Appeal removes barriers to justice, simplifies the appeal process, and promotes efficiency in judicial administration.

Commitment to Due Process

The Kogi State Customary Court of Appeal is firmly committed to upholding the principles of due process, transparency, and equal access to justice. Every case that comes before the Court is handled with impartiality and integrity, ensuring that all parties are given a fair hearing in accordance with the Constitution and established rules of practice.

By adhering to the Court’s procedures, litigants and legal practitioners play a vital role in preserving the integrity of the judicial process. This shared responsibility strengthens public trust in the judiciary and ensures that justice is not only delivered fairly, but also without unnecessary delay.

Through this commitment, the Court continues to serve as a reliable guardian of both the rule of law and the cultural traditions that define the people of Kogi State.