By Julie Okoro
The President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Justice Ricardo Goncalves, has called for stronger collaboration with Nigerian authorities to improve the enforcement of the court’s judgments.
Justice Goncalves made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, noting that a significant number of the court’s decisions across member states, including Nigeria, remain unenforced.
He attributed the situation largely to limited political will and urged Nigeria to take the lead in ensuring compliance within the sub-region.
Responding, the Chief Justice acknowledged the importance of implementing the court’s rulings, particularly in matters relating to fundamental human rights.
She, however, emphasised that enforcement of such judgments rests primarily with the executive arm of government.
She advised the regional court to develop clearer and more uniform guidelines to assist member states in implementing its decisions.
The CJN also pledged continued institutional support through the National Judicial Institute for capacity building and training.
The issue of enforcement had earlier been raised by the Federal Government, with the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, urging the court to consider the practical realities within member states when issuing orders.
The development highlights ongoing discussions on strengthening compliance mechanisms within the ECOWAS legal framework.
