Historic moment for human rights as federal high court scraps fees for filing cases

The federal high court has scrapped all charges attached to filing cases that border on fundamental human rights.

This notice was issued in a circular signed by Jane Egbo, assistant chief registrar (litigation), and pasted around the Abuja court premises on Tuesday.

The circular is titled: “Re; Monetary claims and default fees in fundamental right applications.”

“I have been directed by the Hon. chief judge of the federal high court, Hon. justice J. T. Tsoho to inform all DCRs (deputy chief registrars) and station registrars that henceforth, monetary claims and default fees in respect of fundamental human right applications should no longer be charged. Be so informed and comply accordingly,” the notice read.

Just like civil matters or any other suit filed before a court, applicants in fundamental rights enforcement cases were expected to pay filing fees, among others.

There were also financial penalties attached to defaulting in filing processes within the time allowed by the court’s rules.

The development represents a turning point in the enforcement of human rights in Nigeria, as it will result in the prosecution of more cases by the country’s courts.