Mobile Courts To Try COVID-19 Offenders Inaugurated In Abia State

State Chief Judge Charges Them To Focus On Non Custodial Punishments

The Abia State Government has inaugurated  Special COVID 19 Mobile Courts to try those who infringe on government’s directives regarding the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

Inaugurating the courts which are to cover the three zones of the state, the State Chief Judge ge, Justice Onuoha Ogwe disclosed that mobile court is not a new court in itself  but meant to handle cases arising as a result of the corona virus in the state especially movement of people.

According to him, the focus should be on non custodial sentences,stressing that the Courts should concentrate on those who breach the state’s COVID 19 regulations.

To that effect, he charged the Magistrates of the Mobile Courts to impose reasonable fines or Community Service on offenders as the essence of government in setting up the  Courts is to ensure that government laws are respected.

Justice Ogwe implored the Magistrates of the Court to  be sensitive and patriotic as well as to keep an eye on their supportive staff to ensure that they do not make corrupt arrangements.

The Chief Judge who reminded them that they were chosen because of their credibility also told them to pay into the State Government  accounts all revenues realized.

Responding on behalf of the  other Magistrates, His Worship, Lawrence Okite Esq of Ohafia zone thanked the Chief Judge for finding them fit to serve and promised to discharge their responsibilities to the best of their abilities and in line with the aspirations of the State Government.

His Worship, Emmanuel Ukaegbu is in charge of Aba zone while His Worship, Chuks Nwankpa is in charge of Umuahia zone.

The Honorable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abia State, Uche Ihediwa Esq and the Secretary to Government, Barrister Chris Ezem were at the inauguration.