Yobe State Chief Judge, Justice Gumna Kashim Kaigama, has sworn in members of the Local Government Election Tribunal and Appeal Panel for the local government election conducted in the state on September 26, 2026. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the High Court of Justice, Damaturu, and was attended by the State Grand Khadi and other High Court judges. This move is aimed at ensuring the smooth and transparent handling of election-related petitions.
The Local Government Election Tribunal has been empowered to hear and determine petitions arising from the just concluded council polls. The appeal tribunal, on the other hand, has exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine appeals arising from the decisions of the election tribunal. This dual setup is designed to provide a clear and fair process for addressing any disputes that may arise from the election.
Justice Kaigama emphasized the importance of prioritizing the will of the people in deciding the final outcome of an election. He charged members of both panels to abide by their oath of office and to remain mindful of the enormous responsibility placed on them. The Chief Judge's address was aimed at ensuring that the tribunal and appeal panel members remain impartial and focused on their duties.
The swearing-in ceremony saw the inauguration of chairmen for the appeal panel, including Justice Lawu Lawan for Zone A, Justice U. Z. Mohammed for Zone B, and Justice H. L. L. Musa for Zone C. Additionally, chairmen for the election tribunal were sworn in, comprising Ahmad Bahuya, Abba Bukar, Yahaya Bako, Mamman Shettima, Yusuf M. Garba, and Salisu Baffa Abubakar. These members are expected to play a crucial role in the election petition process.
The Local Government Election Tribunal and Appeal Panel will play a vital role in addressing any disputes that may arise from the September 26, 2026, council polls. By ensuring that the tribunal and appeal panel members are impartial and committed to their duties, the electoral process can be made more transparent and fair. This move is expected to enhance public confidence in the electoral process.
The Yobe State judiciary has demonstrated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The swearing-in of the tribunal and appeal panel members is a significant step towards achieving this goal. The judiciary's role in this process is crucial in maintaining public trust and confidence in the electoral process.
The Local Government Election Tribunal and Appeal Panel will commence their duties immediately, with a mandate to resolve any disputes that may arise from the council polls. Their work will be critical in ensuring that the electoral process is completed in a timely and transparent manner. The Yobe State judiciary has set a positive precedent with the swearing-in of these panels.
Key points
- Yobe State Chief Judge swears in members of Local Government Election Tribunal and Appeal Panel
- Tribunal and appeal panel to handle election-related petitions and appeals
- Chief Judge emphasizes importance of prioritizing the will of the people in election outcomes
