The Bauchi State Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, has warned members of the Local Government Election Tribunals and Appeal Tribunal against political interference as they prepare to handle disputes arising from the forthcoming local government elections.
Justice Rabi issued the warning on Wednesday while inaugurating the judicial panels at the premises of the Bauchi State High Court.
She urged members to remain independent and determine cases solely on the strength of evidence and the provisions of the law.
The Chief Judge said the tribunal members were appointed based on their competence, integrity and commitment to justice, noting that their responsibilities required fairness and a high level of professionalism.
She directed them to treat every political party equally, irrespective of its political affiliation, status or influence in society.
“Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done,” she said, urging the judicial officers to resist every form of pressure, influence or interference.
Justice Rabi said the judiciary had a critical role to play in strengthening democracy, particularly through the fair and timely resolution of electoral disputes.
She added that the confidence of citizens in the electoral process depended significantly on the ability of courts and tribunals to adjudicate matters impartially.
In addition to the election tribunals, the Chief Judge inaugurated Family Court 1 at the Magistrate level and the Right of Way Mobile Court.
She charged members of the courts to demonstrate the same diligence, fairness and professionalism in carrying out their respective assignments.
The Bauchi South Tribunal and Special Court will sit at the State High Court premises in Bauchi, while the Bauchi North Tribunal and Special Court 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.
