Akwa Ibom State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2009

1.-(1) These Rules shall apply to all proceedings including all part- heard causes and matters.

(2) In respect of causes and matters already pending, these Rules shall apply to every further step to be taken in respect of such causes and matters.

(3) Application of these Rules shall be directed towards the achievement of a just, efficient and speedy dispensation of justice.

2. In the construction of these Rules, unless there is anything in the subject or context repugnant thereto, the several words hereinafter mentioned or referred to shall have or include the following meanings, as the case may be.

“Plaintiff” or “Claimant” shall include a claimant in a counterclaim;

“Court” means the High Court of the State;

“Court Process” or “Processes” include writ of summons, originating summons, originating process, notices, petitions, pleadings, orders, motions, summonses, warrants and all documents or written communication of which service is required;

“Decision” means any decision of a Court and includes judgment, ruling, decree, order, conviction, sentence or recommendation;

“Defendant” shall include a defendant to a counter-claim;

“Guardian” means any person who has for the time being, the charge of or control over a person under legal disability and includes a person appointed to institute or defend an action on behalf of any person under legal disability;

“Law” means the High Court Law of Akwa Ibom State, or any re-enactment thereof;

“Minor” means a person who has not attained the age of 18 years;

“Originating Process” means any court process by which a suit is initiated;