RismadarVoice Reporters
June 16, 2026
The President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, has commissioned a new Court of Appeal Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre in Ngootugut, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State, as part of efforts to expand access to justice and promote amicable dispute resolution at the grassroots.
The commissioning formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the Court of Appeal and coincided with Justice Dongban-Mensem’s 69th birthday celebration.
Speaking at the event, Justice Dongban-Mensem said the establishment of the ADR Centre was designed to decentralise justice delivery and make alternative dispute resolution mechanisms more accessible to rural communities.
She explained that mediation and other ADR processes offer a faster, cheaper and less adversarial means of settling disputes while preserving relationships and fostering social harmony.
According to her, the Centre will help reduce delays associated with conventional litigation, ease pressure on the courts and improve access to justice for citizens, particularly those in underserved communities. She noted that similar centres had previously been established in Abuja and Rivers State.
“The Centre will provide an accessible platform for amicable dispute resolution and contribute significantly to peacebuilding and the efficient administration of justice,” she said.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, who attended the ceremony, described Justice Dongban-Mensem as one of the state’s most distinguished daughters, commending her contributions to the judiciary and community development.
“Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem has made Plateau State proud. Her appointment as substantive President of the Court of Appeal was a victory for merit, integrity and competence,” the governor said.
Mutfwang noted that the ADR Centre would enhance access to justice by providing a faster and more affordable avenue for resolving disputes, particularly in rural communities. He added that the facility would strengthen peacebuilding efforts and boost public confidence in the justice system.
The governor also said the presence of the ADR Centre and a Magistrate’s Court in Ngootugut would stimulate development in the area and create new growth opportunities.
Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who represents Plateau South Senatorial District, described the project as a landmark intervention that would bring justice closer to the people and encourage the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Similarly, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, praised Justice Dongban-Mensem’s leadership and commitment to expanding access to justice through community-centred initiatives.
He assured the judiciary of the Assembly’s continued support for programmes that promote peace, development and social cohesion across the state.
