Fagbemi Pushes for Appeal System in ECOWAS Court, Says Justice Without Review Risks Fairness

Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has called on the ECOWAS Court of Justice to establish an appellate review system, warning that final judgments without checks erode credibility.

Speaking in Abuja at the Court’s 2025/2026 legal year opening, Fagbemi said the absence of an appeal process limits fairness, especially when errors of law or procedure occur.

“Finality is important, but justice must also be seen to be fair and revisable,” he stated.

The minister urged the Court to learn from institutions such as the European Court of Human Rights and the East African Court of Justice, stressing that peer review and procedural innovation would strengthen legitimacy.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s backing as host country, Fagbemi described the Court as vital to regional stability, human rights enforcement and integration.

Cabo Verde’s President, José Neves, also underscored the Court’s importance, calling it “a civilisational triumph” for Africa and urging reforms to tackle insecurity, migration and climate change.

ECOWAS Court President, Justice Ricardo Goncalves, revealed that the Court handled 34 new cases in the past year, delivered 54 rulings, and has 112 matters pending.

Established in 1991, the Court remains the only sub-regional tribunal in Africa that allows citizens to directly challenge human rights violations.