Interview with Mubarak Opeyemi Nurudeen:
Mubarak Opeyemi Nurudeen.
Conflict has been an inherent aspect of human life since the dawn of civilization. In recent times, there has been a growing call to leverage technology for effective and lasting dispute resolution.
In this interview, an expert in law and tech-driven conflict resolution, shares valuable insights with our correspondent in Ilorin, Kwara State.”
Q: Mubarak, You’ve studied in both Nigeria and the U.S. How has this diverse education shaped your approach to dispute resolution?
Mubarak: My academic journey started with a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Ilorin in Nigeria and later an LL.M from Ohio State University in the U.S., where I was honored with the Faculty Award for Most Outstanding LL.M Student. In Nigeria, I gained a solid foundation in law and understood the challenges of accessing justice due to the slower traditional legal systems. In the U.S., I was introduced to technological tools that can transform how disputes are resolved. Combining both experiences has helped me appreciate the barriers and opportunities for creating accessible legal systems in various countries.
Q: Your professional career has spanned both Nigerian and American legal landscapes. How have these experiences deepened your understanding of dispute resolution?
Mubarak: I’ve been fortunate to work at Babalakin & Co., where I handled significant cases, including international arbitration and high-profile litigation. My experience in Nigeria highlighted the challenges businesses face when seeking timely dispute resolution, especially for cross-border matters. In the U.S., I’ve operated at the intersection of law and business, particularly in cross-border trade disputes. My time here has shown me how technology can make the dispute resolution process more efficient. The key lesson from both countries is that the future lies in combining legal expertise with technological innovation to resolve disputes more effectively.
Q: Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is gaining traction globally. Can you share your thoughts on the current state of ODR, especially for cross-border disputes?
Mubarak: ODR is indeed on the rise as businesses look for faster and cost-effective ways to resolve disputes. It uses technology like video conferencing, digital case management, and even AI to streamline the process, which is critical for cross-border disputes where differences in legal systems and cultures can slow things down. However, challenges remain, especially the lack of a unified legal framework to enforce ODR decisions across borders. The Singapore Convention on Mediation is a positive step, but more needs to be done to harmonize legal standards, particularly in developing economies.
Q: How do you see ODR contributing to access to justice in developing countries like Nigeria?
Mubarak: ODR holds great promise for improving access to justice in countries like Nigeria. Our court systems are often slow and overburdened, with cases like land disputes sometimes dragging on for over a decade. ODR allows disputes to be resolved without the need for physical courtrooms. As internet access improves in rural areas and mobile devices become more widespread, ODR can bring faster, more affordable justice to underserved populations. For small businesses, this is especially crucial because they typically can’t afford long, drawn-out litigation. However, for ODR to be successful, we need government investment in digital infrastructure, including internet access and mobile-friendly platforms.
Q: Beyond infrastructure, what other elements are needed to build a strong ODR system in developing countries?
Mubarak: Trust and legal harmonization are key. People need to trust that ODR is fair and transparent. Blockchain technology, for example, can ensure transparency by creating permanent, tamper-proof records of proceedings. But legal frameworks must also support ODR, aligning with international standards so that decisions can be enforced. More countries should ratify agreements like the Singapore Convention. Additionally, we need to build capacity by training legal professionals on ODR technologies, ensuring lawyers, arbitrators, and mediators are equipped to use these tools effectively.
Q: Given your current base in the U.S., what plans do you have for advancing ODR domestically?
Mubarak: While the U.S. is a global leader in technology, there’s still room for growth in ODR. Some states like Utah and Michigan have piloted ODR programs, but I’m advocating for broader adoption across the federal and state courts. There’s also a great opportunity for ODR in commercial arbitration, especially for businesses engaged in cross-border trade. If the U.S. can establish a trusted ODR infrastructure, it will attract more international businesses, opening up investment opportunities and positioning the country as a global hub for dispute resolution.
Q: How do you think these ODR advancements could boost business and investment in the U.S.?
Mubarak: Enhancing ODR capabilities in the U.S. would make the country an even more attractive destination for international business. Companies involved in cross-border trade would save time and money on disputes, making the legal system more agile and business-friendly. Additionally, the development of ODR infrastructure could spur innovation in legal tech, opening up opportunities for startups and tech companies to create the tools and platforms necessary to support this shift.
Q: You’ve received prestigious awards for your academic achievements. How has this recognition influenced your career?
Mubarak: Being recognized as the Most Outstanding LL.M Student at Ohio State was both an honor and a motivation. It validated my dedication to advancing dispute resolution, particularly in how technology can be used to transform legal processes. This recognition has opened doors for me to engage with thought leaders in the ODR field and advocate for accessible legal systems, especially in developing markets like Nigeria.
Q: Looking ahead, what innovations do you see shaping the future of ODR, particularly for cross-border disputes?
Mubarak: The future of ODR will be driven by AI and blockchain. AI can automate tasks like document review and early mediation, speeding up the process while ensuring fairness. Blockchain can enhance transparency and trust by creating immutable records of proceedings, and smart contracts can automate financial settlements. I also foresee ODR playing a role in new digital spaces like the metaverse, as more of our interactions move online. ODR will be crucial for resolving disputes in these emerging digital domains.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
