The Chief Judge of the Ogun State, Mosunmola Dipeolu, on Friday, swore-in members of the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal to adjucate over petitions emanating from the November 16th local council poll in the state.
The members of the tribunal, comprising five men and four women, were sworn in at the conference hall of the Judiciary Complex, Kobape, Abeokuta, in line with the provisions of Section 85 (1) and (3) of the Electoral Law of Ogun State.
Justice Dipeolu charged them to adjudicate disputes arising from the electoral process.
She advised them to approach each case with diligence and an unwavering commitment to uncover the truth, noting that the responsibility bestowed upon them is both challenging and rewarding.
The Chief Judge said, “Elections are the bedrock of democracy, providing citizens the opportunity to choose their representatives in an atmosphere of freedom and fairness.
“As chairmen and members of the tribunal, you are charged with a sacred duty to adjudicate disputes arising from this electoral process.
“You have been carefully chosen for this task as the integrity of your decisions will not only affect the immediate parties but will also resonate across the state, shaping the public’s faith in the judiciary and in democracy itself.
“Fairness and justice must be the foundation of your work. 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.
“It is not justice for the appellant only. 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 further asked them to shun all firms of corrupt practices and uphold the principles of fairness,equity and rule of law.
“The rule of law is a protector of democracy and ensures the sustenance of liberty and justice.” Your mandate is to decide each case based on the law, the evidence presented, and your conscience as judges. Let no external influence sway your judgments.”
“I urge you to embrace this assignment with humility, courage, and dedication. You are to serve not just the parties before you but the good people of Ogun State and, indeed, the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your legacy will be written not in the number of cases decided, but in the quality of justice dispensed.”
Ogun Chief Judge swears in members of LG election petition tribunal
