Africa
THE Lagos State Judiciary has dismissed claims that it barred sureties from accessing the Igbosere Magistrates’ Court.
It said measures introduced at the court were aimed at curbing nuisance and protecting the integrity of judicial proceedings.
The judiciary reacted to a newspaper publication dated May 18 titled: “Sureties Cry Out to CJ Alogba Over ban from Accessing Igbosere Magistrates’ Court”.
A statement by the Chief Registrar, Mr Tajudeen Elias, on Thursday, said the publication created a wrong impression that sureties were unjustly denied access.
Elias said access to all court premises in Lagos State remained regulated to maintain order, security, and decorum.
He noted that access was strictly limited to parties, counsel, witnesses, and persons with legitimate business before the court.
The chief registrar explained that the individuals mentioned were not licensed bail bond agents under the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Lagos State.
He said the court observed activities of unregistered individuals who congregated within the premises to solicit defendants for fees.
According to him, their activities resulted in congestion, touting, harassment of litigants, and interference with court business.
”The restriction is a measure to preserve order and prevent abuse of the bail system, not a denial of access to justice,” Elias said.
He maintained that defendants could still perfect bail conditions through relatives or persons meeting legal requirements.
The chief registrar urged the public to disregard claims of arbitrary denial of access, reiterating commitment to proper judicial administration. (NAN)
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