Justice Ekaette Obot, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, established a 15-member election petitions tribunal in advance of the state’s October 5 local government election to settle any potential disputes arising from the poll. The three senatorial districts in the state provide five members to the tribunal.
George Ituen is the chairman of the panel representing the Uyo Senatorial District, while the other members are Comfort Gladstone, Sunday Udo Abasiubong, Unyime Joseph Akpan, and Godwin Thompson Nkorok.
Peter Ndem is the chairman of the Eket Senatorial District panel, while the other members are Emmanuel Akpan, Margaret Ekere, Mr. Usen Eden, and Abasiadoama Etim.
Samuel Akpabio is the Chairman of the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District; members include Mrs. Jersey Ekpo, Ime Richard Utah, Udeme Tom, and Peter Ime Akpan.
Judge Obot noted that the panel’s constitution complied with sections 43 and 45 (1) of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2024 (as amended) during the panel’s Monday inaugural meeting at the CJ’s Chambers on Willongton Bassey Road, Uyo.
“The Local Government Election Petitions Tribunal for each of the Senatorial Districts has been constituted pursuant to Sections 43 and 45 (1) of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2024 (as amended),” the speaker declared.
She asked the panelists to carry out their responsibilities with honor, dignity, and respect rather than giving in to pressure.
The CJ also emphasized to the adjudicators that they had a deadline for deciding the issues that were presented to them and that the LG elections were crucial because they were the foundation of the entire electoral system and represented the grassroots. “And once you begin working, please ensure that you behave appropriately within the standards of our profession and that you do not make any compromises.
You each need to exercise extreme caution in your behavior. The Chief Justice warned, “Take care to perform your duties with the decency, respect, and honor which are typically associated with our great profession.
