By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna In a landmark move aimed at promoting peace, easing the burden on conventional courts, and enhancing access to ju
By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna
In a landmark move aimed at promoting peace, easing the burden on conventional courts, and enhancing access to justice, the Kaduna State Judiciary has announced the temporary closure of all courts across the state from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1, 2025.
This is to enable full participation in the highly anticipated Settlement Week, organized by the Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse (KDMDC), an initiative of the state’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) framework.
Themed, “Justice for All: Peace That Lasts,” the 2025 Settlement Week will provide disputing parties with free, efficient, and non-adversarial resolution mechanisms such as mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and negotiation—including culturally rooted processes like Islamic Sulhu and native law and custom.
Dorcas Levy, Director of the KDMDC, revealed this during a media engagement over the weekend.
“The Chief Judge of Kaduna State, Honorable Justice M.T.M Aliyu, has directed all courts to close during this period to ensure that judicial officers are fully available to support the process,” she said.
“The event is designed to offer free justice services to citizens in an environment that prioritizes peace, harmony, and efficiency.” she added.
The Chief Judge is expected to formally declare the week open on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the High Court Complex, Bida Road, Kaduna.
Throughout the week, disputing parties can resolve a variety of civil and commercial matters, including debt recovery, family disputes, landlord-tenant issues, employment conflicts, and consumer protection claims—without incurring legal costs. Though the initiative does not cover serious criminal offenses or cases lacking mutual consent, it includes certain restorative justice options for minor criminal disputes.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of the Kaduna Branch of the Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA), Olufunke Bamikole, confirmed FIDA’s active participation. “We will be providing free legal aid, community mediation, and paralegal training. It’s our way of ensuring grassroots access to justice,” she said.
Now in its fourth edition, Settlement Week has grown in scope and public acceptance. Last year’s edition recorded a significant turnout and notable case resolutions. This year brings new features, including restorative justice sessions, trauma healing, and broader collaboration with community organizations and NGOs.
In addition to resolving pending disputes, the event will serve as a platform for community awareness, encouraging residents to embrace peaceful and collaborative problem-solving methods. The KDMDC’s outreach will also extend to social media, local religious centers, and market associations to ensure widespread participation.
Participation is free, and members of the public are encouraged to walk into the KDMDC or call their official lines to register their cases.
For inquiries or to refer a case: Address: Kaduna Multi-Door Courthouse, High Court Complex, Bida Road, Kaduna
Email: kdmdcadr@gmail.com
Phone: 09074961655 | 08099590681
Social Media: @kdmdcadr (Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok)
As Kaduna leads the charge for a more responsive and humane justice system, Settlement Week 2025 stands as a testament to the transformative power of alternative dispute resolution.
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