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From Paul Orude, Bauchi
Bauchi State Chief Judge Justice Rabi Talatu Umar has charged members of the State Local Government Election Tribunals, Appeal Tribunals and Right of Way Mobile Court to discharge their duties with absolute impartiality, independence, and fidelity to the law.
Justice Rabi Umar gave the charge on Wednesday while inaugurating members of the tribunals at the High Court premises in Bauchi.
“I hereby formally inaugurate the Local Government Election Tribunals and the Appeal Tribunal of Bauchi State, Family Court 1 at the Magistrate level, and the Right of Way Mobile Court, and wish all members a successful tenure,” she said.
While congratulating the new appointees, the Chief Judge told the tribunal members that their appointments were in recognition of their competence, integrity, and commitment to the administration of justice, while reminding them that the responsibility entrusted to them is a solemn one.
The Chief Judge told the tribunals that they were constituted to adjudicate disputes that may arise from the forthcoming local government elections in the state.
Justice Rabi Umar also charged them to discharge their duties without fear or favour, affection or ill will, and to treat all political parties equally, irrespective of their political affiliation, status, background, or position in society.
Justice Rabi, while reiterating that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, urged the tribunal and court members to resist every form of pressure, influence, or interference and ensure that every matter brought before them is determined strictly on the basis of the evidence presented and applicable law.
She stressed that the judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy and that public confidence in the electoral process depends, to a significant extent, on the ability of the courts and tribunals to resolve disputes impartially and according to the law.
The Chief Judge added, “I equally urge members of the Family Court and the Right of Way Mobile Court to approach your respective assignments with the same level of diligence, fairness, and professionalism.”
Our correspondent reports that the Bauchi South Tribunal and Special Court will sit at the premises of the State High Court, Bauchi; the Bauchi North Tribunal and Special Court will sit at the High Court premises in Azare; while the Magistrate Court premises in Ningi will serve as the venue for the Central Zone Tribunal and Special Court.
