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See How Judges and Lawyers Flee Imo State High Court Over Fears of Building Collapse

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 31st, 2025.

See How Judges and Lawyers Flee Imo State High Court Over Fears of Building Collapse

Judges and lawyers in Imo State have evacuated the Justice Chukwudifu Oputa building of the state high court over fears that the structure may be on the verge of collapsing, according to reports from News360 Nigeria.

Chris Ihentuge, the Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Owerri Branch, shared with reporters on Friday that the decision was made after reports emerged of the building shaking during court proceedings.

Ihentuge further revealed that he had raised concerns about the building’s condition with Governor Hope Uzodimma two weeks ago. The governor reportedly assured that engineers would be sent to inspect the building.

During the construction of the building, structural issues were flagged but were not addressed, Ihentuge pointed out. In light of these concerns, court activities have been suspended for a week to allow experts to evaluate the safety of the building.

“We cannot continue to jeopardize our safety. A week’s pause won’t harm anyone,” Ihentuge stated.

He also called on the state government to fill the vacant position of Chief Judge, which has been unoccupied for the past three months.