By Ahmad Adamu and Shehu Musa:
The Bauchi State High Court has held a sensitization meeting in Azare, headquarters of Katagum Local Government Area, to educate stakeholders on the operations of Small Claims Courts aimed at improving debt recovery processes.
Speaking at the event, Amina Ahmad Garba, who represented the Chief Registrar of Bauchi State, said the Small Claims Courts were created to provide a simple, affordable, and speedy mechanism for resolving debt disputes, particularly among traders and small business owners.
She explained that the courts are structured to deliver judgments within 60 days, ensuring swift resolution of cases and reducing prolonged legal battles that often discourage business activities.
According to her, the Small Claims Courts commenced operations in 2023 and currently operate within Magistrate Courts across several local government areas, including Bauchi, Katagum, Ningi, Alkaleri, Darazo, Misau, and Bogoro. She added that the courts handle debt recovery cases involving claims of up to three million naira.
Garba further advised traders, lenders, and business owners to document their transactions properly through written agreements and credible witnesses to avoid disputes and strengthen their cases when necessary.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Katagum Traders and Artisans Association, Malam Uba Babayo, commended the judiciary for organizing the sensitization programme.
He admitted that many traders were previously unaware of the existence and functions of the Small Claims Courts.
Babayo pledged that the association would educate its members on how to take advantage of the courts to resolve debt disputes efficiently.
He also called for sustained public enlightenment campaigns to promote legal awareness among business communities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Katagum Local Government, Hon. Yusuf Babayo Zaki, represented by Councillor Sani Adamu of Tsakuwa Kofar Gabas Ward, described the initiative as timely and impactful.
He noted that the Small Claims Courts would help address the rising debt-related challenges facing business people in the area and strengthen commercial activities at the grassroots level.
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