November 5, 2025, UMUAHIA–
Abia’s first digital court complex launched — Governor Alex Otti has inaugurated the ultra-modern Umuene Court Complex in Isiala Ngwa South, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to expanding access to justice across Abia State.
Speaking during the commissioning, Otti said the project is part of a statewide plan to build modern courts in all 17 local government areas to support faster adjudication and improve the working conditions of judicial officers. The new complex, he disclosed, is the first of several currently underway.
He highlighted that each facility would feature 15 fully equipped courtrooms, registrars’ offices, chambers for the Chief Judge, conference rooms, standard security systems, and a 1,000-seater multipurpose hall for large judicial events and public use. He urged judicial officers to maintain professionalism, warning against any form of compromise or corruption.
According to him, justice infrastructure must reflect the state’s development goals. “There can be no meaningful progress without unfettered access to justice for every member of society,” the governor said, assuring ongoing executive support for judicial reforms that enhance transparency and accountability.
The Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Lilian Abai, described the complex as a forward-looking investment that would reduce congestion in courts and ensure quicker resolution of cases. She noted that the facilities align with global justice delivery standards and would have a significant impact on public trust in the judiciary.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN), said the court was designed with digital connectivity, independent power supply, water systems, enhanced IT tools and facility maintenance units to ensure long-term functionality. He stressed that the government is not only building structures, but “strengthening judicial institutions that guarantee a fair and reliable justice process.”
The governor further stated that the administration is integrating digital case-management technologies into the newly built courts to minimize delays and eliminate manual bottlenecks that hinder justice delivery. He added that the facilities would support virtual hearings where necessary, reduce overcrowding in existing courts and improve case documentation for the benefit of lawyers and litigants. Otti expressed confidence that such reforms will attract greater investor confidence, noting that credible judicial systems remain a major factor in economic growth and protection of citizens’ rights.
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