The Ukwa High Court, located in Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, remains non-operational almost a year after undergoing a massive renovation. Despite significant improvements to the facility, the court is yet to resume sittings, raising concerns among local residents and stakeholders.
Investigations by Newsportal reveal that the court has remained shut, even after its complete refurbishment under the current administration. Newsportal further learnt that court sittings were relocated to Aba some years ago due to the deteriorated condition of the Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway, which made commuting difficult for the presiding High Court judge based in Aba.
When Governor Alex Otti assumed office in 2023, he appointed Mr. Newman Azu as the Mayor of Ukwa West LGA. Within his first six months in office, Azu prioritised the renovation of the Ukwa High Court. The extensive renovation was completed swiftly, raising hopes that judicial activities would soon return to Obehie.
Speaking at a town hall meeting held at Chyvik Model Secondary School, Obehie, in May 2024, Mayor Azu assured residents that the court would resume sittings “in no distant time.”
The rehabilitation of the Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway has significantly reduced travel time between Aba and Obehie to approximately 30 minutes. This development eliminates the initial logistical challenges that led to the relocation of court sittings and strengthens the case for resuming judicial activities in the newly renovated facility.
Local residents are expressing concern that the continued inactivity at the Ukwa High Court could result in further deterioration of the building. “If nothing is done soon, the court may fall back into disrepair,” one resident told Newsportal under the condition of anonymity.
Some stakeholders that spoke with Newsportal called on the Abia State Judiciary and the relevant authorities to expedite the reopening of the Ukwa High Court.
