Lawyers Must Be Supported To Handle Impending Tsunami Of Coronavirus Cases – Prof. Olawuyi

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships (ARISP) of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Professor Damilola S. Olawuyi has urged governments at all levels to provide urgent and adequate support for the judiciary, lawyers and educational institutions as they face the coming flock of disputes and gridlock amid the pandemic.

Professor Olawuyi, a highly regarded professor of environmental law and Vice-Chair of the International Law Association (ILA) worldwide revealed this during an online workshop on Friday, organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (Ikere Branch), in partnership with the Ekiti State Ministry of Justice, as well as the ILA.

According to him, history has shown that in times of global catastrophe and economic distress, disputes and litigation will significantly increase, ranging from employment cases, to breach of contract, bankruptcy, insurance claims, and supply chain disruptions amongst others.

He added that in addition to technological, digitalization, financial, and infrastructure needs, a number of disaster response mechanisms will need to be put in place at all levels to avoid institutional gridlock.

His words, “History tells us that in times of global catastrophe and economic distress, disputes and litigation will significantly increase, ranging from employment cases, to breach of contract, bankruptcy, insurance claims, and supply chain disruptions amongst others.

The judiciary, as well as lawyers, should be provided adequate support so that they can effectively handle the impending tsunami of disputes and not be overwhelmed.

In addition to technological, digitalization, financial and infrastructure needs, a number of disaster response mechanisms will be need to put in place at all levels to avoid institutional gridlock.”