CSO Decries Poor Funding, State of Infrastructure at Akwa Ibom Judiciary
The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has expressed grave concern over the inadequate funding and deteriorating infrastructure that are crippling the Akwa Ibom State judiciary.
In a statement, CHRAN emphasized that the effectiveness of the justice system in the state could be severely hindered unless urgent steps are taken to address these shortcomings. The group has called on Governor Umo Eno to intervene and provide immediate solutions to the problems plaguing the judiciary, particularly by renovating courts across the 31 local government areas and recruiting additional staff to strengthen the system.
According to Mr. Franklyn Isong, the CHRAN Director in Akwa Ibom, the state’s court facilities are in a state of disrepair. He highlighted critical issues such as broken toilets, outdated fittings, and water system malfunctions, all of which demand urgent attention from the government.
The group’s call extends beyond infrastructural issues to include the recruitment of personnel to tackle the current understaffing in the judiciary, which they believe affects the dispensation of justice.
CHRAN also drew attention to the Divisional Library located at Udotung Ubo Street, Uyo, which has been neglected by successive administrations. This library, built half a century ago under the military government of the defunct South Eastern State, now houses the Akwa Ibom State Library Board, but is in dire need of refurbishment.
Furthermore, Isong raised concerns about the ongoing construction of Tabernacle Road and a flood control project in the state, which has led to the closure of the Calabar-Itu Highway. This closure has caused significant economic challenges for local residents and motorists, with CHRAN urging the contractors and supervising ministries to expedite the project.
The Ibom E-Library, a multi-billion naira initiative, is another point of contention. According to CHRAN’s findings, the library is no longer functioning as intended, and Isong called for urgent action to revitalize the facility along with other public libraries in the state.
On the topic of the Anti-Open Grazing Law, which was enacted by the previous administration of Udom Emmanuel, CHRAN commended the law but noted that it is only being partially enforced in certain areas. The group has urged the Ministries of Agriculture and Rural Development and Internal Security and Waterways to ensure full implementation of the law, aiming to prevent cattle grazing on farmlands in the state.
