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ABSTRACT
Aim of the Study: The administration of justice in Lagos State, Nigeria has been faced with numerous challenges, including congested court dockets, delayed justice, and high cost of litigation. These challenges have necessitated the need to explore alternative means of dispute resolution. This study examines the role of ADR in resolving administrative matters in Lagos State, Nigeria. It highlights the benefits of ADR, including cost-effectiveness, speed, confidentiality, and preservation of relationships.
Design/Methodology: The study employed the interpretive philosophy and a qualitative approach in data collection and analysis. An exploratory research design was considered appropriate because of its flexibility to consider many different aspects of the phenomenon. Similarly, newspaper reports and opinions were content analyzed as the study adhered to the qualitative model of social research, which included textbooks, journals, articles, newspapers, and other publications.
Findings: The study indicate that ADR has been effective in resolving administrative matters in Lagos State, particularly in areas such as tenancy disputes, consumer protection, and small claims. However, the paper also identifies some challenges faced in the implementation of ADR in Lagos State, including lack of awareness, lack of trust, and inadequate legal framework.
Practical Implications: ADR has proven to be a valuable tool in resolving administrative matters in Lagos State, Nigeria. By promoting a culture of peaceful resolution of disputes, ADR has contributed to the growth and development of Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. The study recommends increased public awareness campaigns on the benefits of ADR, the creation of a dedicated ADR center within the Lagos State Judiciary, and the establishment of a legal framework that recognizes and regulates ADR processes. The paper also suggests the need for continued training and education for ADR practitioners to ensure the effective delivery of ADR services.
Originality/value: The current study makes a substantial contribution to the extant literature on the various ADR mechanisms available in Lagos State, such as the Multidoor Courthouse (MDC), the Citizens Mediation Center (CMC), and the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) Mediation Center.
Keywords: Administrative Matters, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Citizens Mediation Center (CMC), Lagos State Mediation Center (LMC) and Multidoor Courthouse (MDC).
Paper Type: Research Paper.
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