Ahead of the upcoming local government elections in Akwa Ibom State, the Chief Judge, Justice Ekaette Obot, has taken decisive steps toward ensuring a transparent and efficient electoral process by inaugurating a 15-member election petitions tribunal. This tribunal is specifically designed to address and adjudicate any disputes that may arise during the elections scheduled for October 5. The panel comprises five members each from the three senatorial districts within the state—Uyo, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene—demonstrating a balanced representation aimed at fostering trust in the electoral system.
The Uyo Senatorial District panel is chaired by George Ituen, with members including Comfort Gladstone, Sunday Udo Abasiubong, Unyime Joseph Akpan, and Godwin Thompson Nkorok. In the Eket Senatorial District, Peter Ndem leads the panel, supported by Emmanuel Akpan, Margaret Ekere, Usen Eden, and Abasiadoama Etim. Meanwhile, in the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Samuel Akpabio oversees the panel, which comprises Peter Ime Akpan, Ime Richard Utah, Udeme Tom, and Mrs. Jersey Ekpo. This structured approach aims to ensure that electoral disputes are handled fairly and efficiently at various local levels.
During the inauguration, Justice Obot emphasized that the formation of the tribunal aligns with Sections 43 and 45 (1) of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2024 (as amended). She communicated the significance of the tribunal’s role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, particularly with local government elections being foundational to the state’s democratic system. Her remarks highlighted the duty of the tribunal members to uphold the tenets of the legal profession, stressing the importance of professionalism, ethical behavior, and impartiality in their responsibilities.
Justice Obot’s directives were clear: the tribunal members must exhibit respect, dignity, and honor while carrying out their adjudicative functions. She underscored the time-sensitive nature of their work, calling attention to the fact that local government elections are a vital component of the electoral framework that directly impacts the community. By urging the panel to prioritize ethical considerations and to approach their roles with integrity, she aimed to instill a sense of accountability and seriousness in the upcoming election adjudications.
In his response on behalf of the tribunal, Chairman George Ituen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve on such an important panel, acknowledging the trust placed in them by the government and the judiciary. He reaffirmed the panel’s commitment to uphold the integrity of their profession while promising to work diligently to make the judiciary proud. Ituen’s response reflected a collective understanding of the challenges and responsibilities that lay ahead, as the tribunal members prepare to ensure that electoral disputes are managed fairly and judiciously.
Overall, the establishment of the election petitions tribunal ahead of the local government elections in Akwa Ibom State represents a proactive measure to uphold democracy and ensure that any disputes encountered during the electoral process are addressed swiftly and fairly. The Chief Judge’s emphasis on ethical conduct, professional integrity, and respect signifies the importance of maintaining public confidence in the judiciary and the electoral process. As the elections approach, the judiciary stands ready to play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of voters and candidates alike, serving as a foundation for democratic governance in Akwa Ibom State.
