The Judicial arm of the government comprises the Chief Judge of the
state, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal and the other
Judges who presides at the Magistrate Courts, High Courts and Customary
Courts in the state. The Customary Court of Appeal is headed by a
President who sees to matters of policy relating to management and
supervision of the customary courts system in the state while the
day-to-days administration of the court lies on the shoulders of a Chief
Registrar who is usually appointed from the rank of Chief Magistrates.
The Customary Court of Appeal hears appeals from the decisions of the
Customary Courts on issues relating to or involving questions of
customary laws and equally exercises supervisory jurisdiction over the
customary courts. The Customary Court Appeal is presided over by a
President and five other Honourable judges who are legal practitioners
with not less than ten years –post –call experience and who are versed
in the customary laws of the state. They are appointed by the Governor
of the state on the recommendation of the Judicial Council. They enjoy
the same status with judges of the High Court in terms of privileges and
remuneration.
High courts are found in Aba and Ohafia local government areas as well
as Umuahia, the state capital. Magistrate courts are located in Aba,
Arochukwu, Ohafia, Bende, lsuikwuato and Ukwa LGAs. Customary courts are
also found in Ukwa, lsuikwuato, Bende, Ohafia, and Arochukwu LGAs |