Leading the debate, Senator Idiat Adebule (Lagos West) described the 1945 law as “manifestly outdated and fundamentally disconnected from present realities.” 

She highlighted archaic provisions, including mandatory personal hand-delivery of court documents and a monthly debtor allowance of just 45 kobo.

The proposed amendments would introduce digital service of processes, simplify judgment enforcement, and modernize the law to match current judicial and economic demands.

“The current requirement for attorney-general consent before enforcing monetary judgements against government agencies has become an impediment to justice and a violation of fundamental rights,” Adebule stated.

Senator Kaka Shehu (Borno Central), a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), backed the bill, saying it would “bring justice closer to the people and make enforcement of judgements less cumbersome.”

Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, labeled the consent provision “a law from colonial times” and slammed outdated fines and costs that fuel corruption.

Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno Central), a former state Attorney-General, emphasized that laws must evolve with society.Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin conducted a voice vote, declaring the ‘ayes’ victorious. 

He referred the bill to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for a report within four weeks.”

“The world is changing. The world is dynamic, and so also are all aspects of our lives, so I am swayed by the argument,” Barau remarked, commending Adebule for sponsoring the legislation.