FCT Customary Court of Appeal | Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

Established by:
Customary Court of the FCT Act, 2007
Number of Courts:
43 Customary Courts
Coverage:
6 Area Councils of the FCT

Customary Courts of the Federal Capital Territory

Overview

In order to streamline the administration of Native Laws and Customs in the Federal Capital Territory, and considering the cosmopolitan nature of the FCT, the National Assembly enacted the Customary Court of the Federal Capital Territory Act, 2007.

This Act established Customary Courts with powers to hear and determine cases and matters on Customary Laws and other matters as may be conferred by statute, including but not limited to violations of the AMAC Control of Advertisement Bye-Law (No. 5).

Grades of Customary Courts

There are three (3) Grades of Customary Courts in the FCT:
• Customary Court Grade A
• Customary Court Grade B
• Customary Court Grade C
Each grade has defined jurisdiction and powers as prescribed by law.

Composition of Each Court

Every Customary Court is empanelled by:
• A Chairman (who is the Presiding Judge)
• Two other Judges (Member 1 and Member 2)
The minimum qualification for appointment to the Customary Court Bench (either as Chairman or Member) is two (2) years post-call to the Bar experience.

Geographical Spread

There are presently forty-three (43) Customary Courts spread across the six (6) Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory: Abaji, Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali. These courts bring customary justice closer to the grassroots level and serve the diverse communities of the FCT.

Relationship with the Customary Court of Appeal

The Customary Court of Appeal exercises appellate and supervisory jurisdiction over all decisions and operations of the Customary Courts in the FCT. Appeals from Customary Courts on questions of customary law lie to the Customary Court of Appeal.

Key Functions of Customary Courts

Hear and determine matters on customary law
Handle specified statutory offences
Promote access to justice at the local level

Need Assistance with a Customary Matter?

Contact the nearest Customary Court or the Registry of the Customary Court of Appeal

info@fctcca.gov.ng

+234 9930 1234 5679

Customary Courts in the FCT