CCT seeks National Assembly approval to become anti-corruption court

The Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) has requested approval from the National Assembly to convert itself into a dedicated National Anti-Corruption Court, aiming to expedite the resolution of corruption cases. The tribunal's new leadership disclosed this development, highlighting the potential for seven judicial divisions across Nigeria and 37 judges specializing in corruption-related cases.

The proposed legislation is being pursued as an Executive Bill through the Attorney-General and Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The new court would have the authority to handle cases brought forth by anti-graft agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Corrupt Practices Commission (CPC), Public Complaints Commission (PCC), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), as well as civil society organizations.

The proposed court would operate on a summary trial system, with all cases concluded within six weeks of arraignment. The tribunal's recent achievements include recovering two out of its three estate properties, which were allegedly sold illegally. The tribunal has also elevated the status of its chairman and members to that of Federal High Court judges and created seven new departments.

However, the tribunal faces challenges such as an inadequate inflow of cases and insufficient funding, with the latter being a significant concern as the tribunal has yet to receive its N2bn budget allocation from the government.