CJN orders closure of courts over coronavirus fears

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Tanko Mohammed, on Monday, directed the suspension of all court sittings except in matters that are urgent, for 14 days because of COVID-19.

This was made in a communique issued by the CJN.

The communique reads in part, “Further to my earlier Circular Ref. No. NJC/CIR/HOC/II/629dated 20th March, 2020, on the above subject matter. In view of the reality of the COVID-19 in the country and in order to take further preventive steps, all Heads of Courts are, from tomorrow, the 24th day of March, 2020, directed to suspend Court sittings for an initial period of two weeks at the first instance, except in matters that are urgent, essential or time-bound according to our extant laws.

“Your Lordships are hereby directed to bring the content of this Circular to the notice of all Stakeholders in justice administration, please.”