Anambra State Commissioner for Lands, Offornze Amucheazi, urged lawyers to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms for settling disputes among their clients. Speaking at a Pinnacle Tree Attorneys event in Awka, he highlighted ADR’s ability to guarantee quicker resolutions while still allowing lawyers to benefit financially from the process. Amucheazi pointed out that Anambra residents are spending huge sums on litigation for matters that could be amicably settled through ADR, a trend he finds alarming.
The commissioner dismissed the notion that ADR would replace litigation or deprive lawyers of their jobs. He explained that ADR combines elements of both litigation and traditional dispute resolution, enabling lawyers to earn income from the process. As the keynote speaker, Amucheazi addressed the theme “Promoting Peaceful Settlement Through ADR (Peace is Better)” and encouraged lawyers to explore ADR for their clients. He cited the ministry’s success in resolving 74 disputes through mediation since he took office, emphasizing an approach that brings parties together, listens to them, and allows them to decide how to resolve their issues.
Barr. Chekwuke Ezekwike, Principal Partner of Pinnacle Tree Attorneys, reinforced the importance of peaceful arbitration over prolonged courtroom battles. She noted that disputes are a natural part of life, but the manner in which they are handled matters. Ezekwike highlighted ADR’s ability to provide peace that litigation often cannot, as litigation is frequently driven by ego and pride. Marking its third anniversary, Pinnacle Tree Attorneys reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ADR as an effective means of dispute resolution, citing successful cases that litigation could not settle.
As the legal profession continues to evolve, the adoption of ADR mechanisms is poised to play a significant role in advancing alternative means of dispute resolution.
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