Ogun LG Poll Controversy: Justice Dipeolu Swears In 9-Man Tribunal Members

A nine-member local government election petition tribunal has been appointed by the state’s chief judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, to hear appeals filed following the state’s most recent local government election on November 16th.

The state capital’s conference hall, Kobape, Abeokuta, is in compliance with the terms of section 85 (1 and 3) of the Electoral law of Ogun state, which includes five men and four women.

She urged them to take a diligent look at each situation and a firm commitment to finding the truth because the work they were given is both challenging and rewarding.

READ ALSO: Court Discharges, Acquits 50 Persons Alleged To Be IPOB Members

She urged them to embrace the task before them with humility, bravery, and dedication and serve the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s citizens as well.

She urged them to be sincere, reject all forms of corrupt behavior, and uphold the principles of justice, equity, and the rule of law.

Elections give citizens the freedom to elect their representatives in a fair and free environment, according to the spokesman for democracy. You are owed a sacred duty to resolve disputes arising from this electoral process as chairmen and tribunal members.

The integrity of your decisions will affect the immediate parties and the state, informing the public’s trust in the judiciary and democracy itself, according to the executive director.

Your work must have a foundation in justice and fairness. As Lord Denning famously said”, Justice is rooted in confidence, and confidence is destroyed when right-minded people go away thinking: the judge was biased. “The public must perceive you as impartial, dispensing justice without fear, favour, or prejudice. Our own Hon”.

“The appellant only benefits from justice,” the statement read. Justice is not even only a two-way traffic. It is really a three-way traffic: justice for the appellant, justice for the respondent, and justice for the society at large”. This profound statement must guide you as you ensure that the rights of all parties—petitioners, respondents, and the electorate—are protected. “

She urged them to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and equity.

READ ALSO: Alleged Cybercrime: Arraigned Foreigners, Others Plead Not Guilty

” The rule of law is the cornerstone of any civilized society, and its observance is non-negotiable. according to Hon. Former Nigerian Chief Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais said, “The rule of law protects democracy and ensures the maintenance of liberty and justice.” Your mandate is to decide each case based on the law, the evidence presented, and your conscience as judge. Let no external influence sway your judgments. “

” Electoral justice requires strict adherence to the principles enshrined in our Constitution, the Electoral Act, and judicial precedents. You must therefore approach each case with diligence and an unwavering commitment to uncover the truth because the Nigerian judiciary has consistently stated that the tribunal is a court of both law and facts. You are given a lot of responsibility, but it’s both rewarding and challenging.

” As tribunal members, you are not just arbiters but custodians of democracy. Let me make note of Hon. Justice Niki Tobi, who once said, “Judges must be men and women of integrity, who will not bend the law to suit the whims of the powerful. They must remain resolute, focused, and unyielding in their quest for justice”.

“I urge you to embrace this assignment with humility, courage, and dedication. You are serving the good people of Ogun State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria in addition to the parties before you. Your legacy will depend on the standard of justice provided, not the number of cases decided.

“As you take the oath today, may you be guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law. Keep in mind that your work with this tribunal has the potential to strengthen the foundation of our democracy. The judiciary is the last hope for the common man.

Source: Channels TV