From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
Justice Joel Agya, Chief Judge of Taraba State, has designated High Court 9 as a family court for the trial of family cases in the state.
The designation was made during an advocacy visit by Mrs. Agyin Kefas, wife of the governor of Taraba State, in Jalingo.
According to Justice Agya, the family court will have jurisdiction over various family-related matters, including divorce, child abuse, neglect, and delinquency.
He emphasized that the court’s primary concern will be safeguarding the best interest of the child in all cases.
Justice Agya noted that 30% of girls and women in Nigeria, aged between 15 and 49, have experienced some form of sexual abuse.
He stated that the primary legislation addressing this issue is the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, which Taraba State has domesticated.
Earlier, Mrs. Kefas had requested the judiciary to establish mechanisms for speedy trials of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) offenders.
She expressed concern over the increasing menace of child abuse and gender-based violence, and offered to collaborate with the judiciary to address these issues.
The designation of High Court 9 as a family court is expected to enhance the judiciary’s efforts in addressing family-related issues and promoting justice in Taraba State.
