The ECOWAS Court of Justice has reiterated its dedication to justice, accountability, and human rights protection across the West African sub-region.
Speaking at the day 2 of sensitisation programme in Lagos, the Court’s Chief Registrar, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, emphasised the institution’s vital role and called for greater public awareness of its mandate.
He urged stakeholders in Nigeria’s commercial capital to help amplify the Court’s visibility and accessibility.
He noted that despite the Court’s significant mandate, many West Africans remain unaware of its existence and its role in defending fundamental rights.
Dr. Ouro-Sama explained that the ECOWAS Court was established under the 1975 Lagos Treaty to support regional integration and economic cooperation. The Revised Treaty of 1993 further reinforced this mission, leading to the Court’s formal establishment in 2001.
Originally tasked with resolving disputes between Member States and ECOWAS institutions, the Court’s powers were significantly broadened in 2005 through a supplementary protocol. This expansion introduced four key functions: serving as a Community Court, an Administrative Court for ECOWAS staff, an Arbitration Tribunal, and a Human Rights Court.
