The Cross River State House of Assembly has called for the decentralisation of probate services in the state, seeking the establishment of additional probate centres in two local government areas to make access to legal and estate administration services easier for residents.
The lawmakers argued that concentrating probate services in one location creates unnecessary challenges for citizens, especially those living far from the state capital who need to process issues relating to wills, inheritance, estate management and related legal matters.
The proposal is aimed at bringing government legal services closer to the people by reducing travel costs, delays and other difficulties associated with accessing probate facilities.
Probate services are essential in helping families and beneficiaries legally manage the estates of deceased persons, including the validation of wills and administration of properties left behind. The Assembly believes expanding access points would improve efficiency and strengthen service delivery within the justice system.
The move comes amid wider discussions around improving public administration and making government institutions more accessible at the grassroots level. Cross River authorities have recently focused on reforms aimed at improving efficiency and governance structures across sectors.
Supporters of the decentralisation plan say it could reduce pressure on existing probate offices and provide faster services for residents, while critics may question whether additional centres will be backed by adequate funding, staffing and infrastructure to function effectively.
The proposed expansion is expected to generate further discussions among stakeholders in the legal sector, government officials and members of the public as the state considers ways to modernise access to justice-related services.
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