The Small Claims Court Bill, 2016 has passed second reading in Senate. The Bill seeks to establish a small claims court where claims not exceeding N1, 000, 000 (One Million Naira) are adjudicated informally, and in accordance with established principles of law and natural justice. The Bill also anticipates driving down the cost of pursuing small claims in the country.
Leading the debate on the bill at plenary on Wednesday, 9th November, 2016, Sen. Joshua Lidani (PDP:Gombe) noted that the Court would have the jurisdiction to hear and determine:
- Claims relating to disputes arising from any contract for the sale of goods or the provision of services;
- Any claim in tort in respect of damage caused on any property;
- Any claim or thing authorized or directed by an Act of the National Assembly.
He explained that the procedure adopted by the Small Claims Court would be simplified without the formal requirement for the filing of pleadings. Furthermore he stated that the establishment of the court was targeted at the collection of small debts and provides a forum for the resolution of civil disputes. He also mentioned that the Small Claims Court would have no additional financial burden on the government, as the court would be operating under the existing court system. In addition, he summarized that its establishment would improve access to justice to all Nigerians as individuals and businesses would resolve small claims in a simple and inexpensive way.
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