The execution of judgments of the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) remains a significant issue in fulfilling the judicial institution's mandate and responsibility towards the community's citizens. This observation was made by Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja, at the opening of the statutory meeting of the Judicial Council on May 27, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, Mrs. Tchintchibidja noted that the additional protocol relating to the Community Court provides for a role for national judicial institutions in enforcing these judgments. “I think the time has come to take deliberate steps to meet this challenge,” she said.
She emphasized the judiciary's crucial role in conflict prevention through promoting and defending the rule of law and human rights. To this end, she suggested institutionalizing more regular meetings of the Judicial Council to ensure that the Court’s activities benefit from regular review and guidance.
On behalf of Dr. Touray, she expressed deep gratitude to Council members for their guidance to ECOWAS's judicial body, stating, “Over the years, the Community Court of Justice has been a point of reference for ECOWAS institutions as well as individuals, entities, and governments seeking advice, arbitration, and decisions.”
Mrs. Tchintchibidja highlighted that regular sessions are necessary to address issues related to effective functioning and ensure high standards among judges regarding independence, impartiality, integrity, competence, and diligence.
President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice Honourable Justice Edward Amoako Asante recalled that since its creation, his institution has served as a beacon of hope for West Africans by providing a platform for conflict resolution and human rights protection. “Our commitment to uphold the principle prescribed in the ECOWAS Treaty remains firm to serve as a guideline in our quest for a more just and equitable society in West Africa,” he said.
Chief Justice of Nigeria and President of ECOWAS Judicial Council Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola echoed similar sentiments about striving for a just and equitable West African society. “Together we bear a heavy responsibility to safeguard justice principles, uphold rule-of-law principles and advance peace and prosperity causes for millions we serve," he stated.
This statutory meeting will decide on recommendations made by two committees set up at February 2024’s Judicial Council meeting in Abuja. The first committee is expected to propose solutions related to implementing court judgments while examining rules/procedures linked with effective council functioning falls under second committee purview.
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