In a significant step towards enhancing access to justice and promoting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, signed the bill for the Plateau Multi Door Courthouse Law (PMDC) 2017. The signing ceremony, held at the Government House in Jos, marked a momentous occasion for the justice system in the state.
Governor Lalong, while addressing attendees, highlighted the pivotal objective of PMDC — to provide alternative mechanisms that complement litigation, thereby minimizing citizens' frustration and delays in justice delivery. The signed bill establishes a robust legal framework for the fair, speedy, and efficient settlement of disputes through ADR, positioning PMDC as a focal point for the promotion of ADR in Plateau State.
The PMDC law aims to serve multiple purposes:
Access to Justice Enhancement:
By offering alternative mechanisms to supplement litigation, PMDC seeks to enhance citizens' access to justice, ensuring a more inclusive and efficient justice delivery system.
Standard Legal Framework:
The law provides a standard legal framework for the settlement of disputes through ADR, fostering consistency and adherence to fair practices.
Promotion of ADR:
PMDC is designated to promote the growth and effective functioning of the justice system through the widespread adoption of ADR methods.
Encouraging Settlement Options:
Disputing parties with matters already listed before the court are encouraged to appear before PMDC to explore settlement options, contributing to quicker and more amicable resolutions.
Collaboration and Working Relationships:
PMDC is poised to collaborate with reputable organizations, including the Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution of the Plateau State Ministry of Justice. This collaboration will encompass operations, services, and the referral of matters based on mutually agreed terms and conditions.
The signing of the PMDC bill reinforces Plateau State's commitment to creating an accessible, efficient, and fair justice system. This legislative milestone aligns with the broader national efforts to promote ADR as a viable means of dispute resolution, offering citizens an alternative pathway to justice.
For more information on the PMDC bill and its implications, please refer to the official press release.
Governor Lalong's endorsement of the PMDC law signals a new era for justice in Plateau State, emphasizing the importance of embracing alternative dispute resolution for the benefit of all citizens.
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