*UDUS LAW STUDENTS HOLD FIRST EVER ONLINE MOOT TRIAL*

In a bid to increase their knowledge in practice and procedures of law and also keeping them doing something productive while ASUU is still on strike, the 200level Law students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto on Friday conducted the first ever online moot trial in the history of the school.

The mooting which is civil in nature was conducted on the WhatsApp platform of the Ug2 law students of the school which lasted about two hours.

Justice Ibrahim Manzuma Idris who is the Chief Judge of Udus LSS Judiciary presided over the trial.

While giving his opening remarks, he was quoted to have said among other things that:
"This is a thing of joy and happiness for me that this brilliant idea is initiated by 200level law students. I love seeing young people making a change in a different and new way. Therefore, I commend you for this brilliant idea. It is no longer a news that the world is going digital and as serious students with progressive minds, we must be ever ready to take advantage professionally of whatever opportunity the digital world present to us".

He was equally quoted to have said that "Nigerian courts are now gradually embracing ICT. Court processes are now filed online and hearing notice are given via email. This is to tell us that we cannot shy away from ICT particularly online litigation. So, the earlier we embrace it, the better for us".

Speaking with some of students that actively participated in the exercise, Olokooba Abdulwasiu, one of the counsels to the plaintiff in the case, indicated that the exercise is an avenue for him as a student of law to be more fortified and well trained for the challenges in the practice of law both in law school and in the real court of law.

Similarly, Folohunsho Faozy, one of the counsels to the defendant, described the moot trial as a chance for him to learn the skills for advocacy and to master them before he will actually face the real judge.

However, the case was adjourned till 16th December, 2018 for continuation of presentation of oral addresses from both parties after witnessing hot arguments from them on the first issue of determination in the case.

By: *Olokooba Abdulwasiu*

® *News Digest Press Club, Udus.*