Taraba Launches E-Filing Portal for Criminal Cases

The Taraba State Government has launched an electronic filing portal for criminal cases through the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS), marking a major step toward digitising judicial processes in the state.

Governor Agbu Kefas officially launched the e-filing platform on Monday at a go-live ceremony in Jalingo. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Timothy Kataps.

Kataps described the initiative as a historic milestone that underscores the state government's commitment to strengthening institutions, deepening the rule of law and promoting effective governance. He noted that the e-filing system is the first of its kind in Taraba State and represents a foundational step toward the full deployment of a comprehensive case management framework within the Taraba State High Court.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the modernisation of the judiciary, stressing that technology remains a critical tool for achieving swift, fair and transparent justice. According to him, the state government will continue to provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to sustain ongoing judicial reforms.

"I commend the Taraba State Judiciary for taking a major step toward digital transformation with the official launch of the Nigerian Case Management System and the e-Filing Portal. This initiative is aimed at modernising court processes, improving case management, and ensuring faster and more efficient delivery of justice across the state," Kataps said.

In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Taraba State, Justice Joel Agya, described the initiative as a proactive move to transition the judiciary from manual operations to a modern, technology-driven system.

Justice Agya explained that the e-filing portal would enable the electronic filing of originating processes and subsequent applications. He said the system would also improve case tracking and monitoring from filing to final determination, while significantly reducing delays associated with manual registry procedures.

According to him, the platform would enhance the security, integrity and accessibility of court records, promote better docket control and improve time management by judges. He added that the system is designed to support judicial decision-making rather than replace it, ensuring that administrative processes no longer hinder the delivery of timely justice.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Judge of Borno State, Justice Kashim Zannah, described the introduction of e-filing in Taraba as a welcome development, noting that it reflects the judiciary's resolve to embrace innovation and modern tools to address long-standing challenges in court administration.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Taraba State Chief Judge also signed the Taraba State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2026, as well as the Practice Direction on the e-filing of criminal cases in the High Courts of the state..

(NAN)