By Abbas Gungura, Bauchi
Published by Alphapressmedia
BAUCHI — Ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Bauchi State, the Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, has charged members of the Local Government Election Tribunals and Appeal Tribunal to uphold absolute impartiality, independence and strict fidelity to the law.
Justice Umar gave the charge on Wednesday while inaugurating members of the Local Government Election Tribunals, Appeal Tribunal, Family Court I at the Magistrate level and the Right of Way Mobile Court at the State High Court premises in Bauchi.
The Chief Judge warned members against political pressure, external influence or interference, stressing that their decisions must be based solely on evidence and applicable laws.
“I hereby formally inaugurate the Local Government Election Tribunals and the Appeal Tribunal of Bauchi State, Family Court I at the Magistrate level, and the Right of Way Mobile Court, and wish all members a successful tenure,” she said.
Congratulating the appointees, Justice Umar said their selection was in recognition of their competence, integrity and commitment to the administration of justice, reminding them that the responsibilities entrusted to them were solemn and demanded the highest standards of professionalism.
She explained that the election tribunals were constituted specifically to adjudicate disputes that may arise from the forthcoming local government elections in the state.
Justice Umar urged members to discharge their duties without fear or favour, affection or ill-will, and to accord equal treatment to all political parties and litigants, irrespective of political affiliation, status, background or position in society.
Reiterating the principle that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, the Chief Judge cautioned members to resist every form of pressure, influence and interference.
She stressed that every matter brought before the tribunals must be determined strictly on the strength of the evidence presented and the applicable law.
According to her, the judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy, while public confidence in the electoral process depends significantly on the ability of courts and tribunals to resolve disputes independently, fairly and according to law.
Justice Umar similarly charged members of the Family Court and Right of Way Mobile Court to approach their respective assignments with diligence, fairness and professionalism.
Our correspondent reports that the Bauchi South Tribunal and Special Court will sit at the State High Court premises in Bauchi, while the Bauchi North Tribunal will operate from the High Court premises in Azare.
The Central Zone Tribunal and Special Court will sit at the Magistrate Court premises in Ningi.
