The Nigerian Bar Association ( NBA), Imo State branch, has raised alarm over structural vibrations at the three storey building within the Imo State High Court premises.
The vibrations disrupted proceedings on Friday as lawyers were forced to flee the complex for their safety.
The building, reportedly constructed during the administration of former Governor Rochas Okorocha, is alleged to have structural defects.
Reacting to the incident, the NBA Chairman, Owerri branch, Barrister Chris Ihentuge, on Friday, called for a one week suspension of all activities due to safety concerns.
Addressing his colleagues and litigants at the court, Ihentuge said the building had been vibrating during court sessions adding that some judges had raised concerns about similar incidents in recent days.
He said, “I have been reliably informed that while court was sitting yesterday, the building was vibrating. I made calls to the Chief Registrar, and she confirmed that Justice Onyeukwu complained and informed her about the incident.
“I also heard from another judge that two days ago the same thing happened, and this issue has been lingering even before this building was put to use; there were complaints about structural defects in the building and we complained, but nothing happened.
“So, we are saying for now, we should suspend, at least for one week, the use of this building until the proper thing is done. The proper thing is to let experts come and certify that this building is fit. We cannot risk our lives. One week will not kill us. Let us suspend activities in this building.
“Let it be on record that the NBA Owerri branch has warned lawyers and litigants that it is risky to use this building as it is now. That is why we are complaining that a Chief Judge should be appointed for the Imo State Judiciary,” he said.
Ihentuge also lamented the absence of a Chief Judge in Imo State for nearly three months, stating that the leadership gap has contributed to the issues the Judiciary is facing in the state.
“A situation where we don’t have a Chief Judge going into three months now is not acceptable. Let all well-meaning Imolites say something about this. We cannot remain without a leader, and that is what is causing all these problems. Who do you complain to?” he stated.
“There are lots of things to complain about. You cannot walk these stairs during the daytime without a torchlight. Judges are not sitting because they don’t have lights.
“You remove your wig and gown because there is no fan. Nothing is working, and that is our position. So, this building, for now, is not safe, and that is our position for now,” Ihentuge said.
