No. 36, P.O.W. Mafemi Crescent, Utako District, Abuja, FCT

Jurisdiction of the Customary Court of Appeal
  • Constitutional Basis:

    Section 265, 1999 Constitution

  • Court Type:

    Superior Court of Record

  • Jurisdiction Area:

    Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

Jurisdiction of the Customary Court of Appeal

Overview

The Customary Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja is vested with both original and appellate jurisdiction. It is a superior court of record established under Section 265(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

In addition to its adjudicatory functions, the Court exercises supervisory jurisdiction over all Customary Courts operating within the Federal Capital Territory.

Original Jurisdiction

The Court has exclusive original jurisdiction to hear and determine disputes relating to Chieftaincy Matters in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, to the exclusion of every other court.

Appellate Jurisdiction

The Court has appellate jurisdiction over civil proceedings involving questions of Customary Law arising from decisions of Customary Courts in the Federal Capital Territory.

Supervisory Jurisdiction

The Customary Court of Appeal exercises general supervisory jurisdiction over all Customary Courts in the Federal Capital Territory. This includes ensuring proper administration of justice, adherence to customary law principles, and compliance with procedural rules across the various grades of Customary Courts.

Key Features of Jurisdiction

The jurisdiction of the Court is rooted in the need to preserve, protect, and apply customary law and traditions within the cosmopolitan context of the Federal Capital Territory, while ensuring fairness, equity, and access to justice for all.

Main Areas Covered
  • Chieftaincy disputes and traditional titles

  • Appeals on questions of customary law

  • Supervision of Customary Courts (Grades A, B, C)

Court Jurisdiction Illustration
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