The Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu has sworn in a nine-member local government election petition tribunal to adjudicate over petitions emanating from the last November 16th local government election in the state

Swearing in the members which include five men and four women at the conference hall of the judiciary complex, Kobape, Abeokuta, the state capital is in accidence with the provisions of section 85 (1 and (3) of the Electoral law of Ogun state

She challenged them to approach each case with diligence and an unwavering commitment to uncover the truth, as the responsibility bestowed upon them is both challenging and rewarding.

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She also urged them to embrace the task before them with humility, courage, and dedication and serve not just the parties before them but the people of the State and, indeed, the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

She asked them to be dedicated, shun all forms of corrupt practices and uphold the principles of fairness, equity and the rule of law.

“Elections are the bedrock of democracy, providing citizens the opportunity to choose their representatives in an atmosphere of freedom and fairness. As Chairmen and members of the tribunal, you are charged with a sacred duty to adjudicate disputes arising from this electoral process”

“You have been carefully chosen for this task as the integrity of your decisions will not only affect the immediate parties but will also resonate across the state, shaping the public’s faith in the judiciary and in democracy itself.”

“Fairness and justice must be the foundation of your work. As Lord Denning famously said, “Justice is rooted in confidence, and confidence is destroyed when right-minded people go away thinking: the judge was biased.” The public must perceive you as impartial, dispensing justice without fear, favour, or prejudice. Our own Hon.”

” It is not justice for the appellant only. Justice is not even only a two-way traffic. It is really a three-way traffic: justice for the appellant, justice for the respondent, and justice for the society at large.” This profound statement must guide you as you ensure that the rights of all parties—petitioners, respondents, and the electorate—are protected.”

She asked them to uphold the principles of the rule of law, fairness and equity.

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“The rule of law is the cornerstone of any civilized society, and its observance is non-negotiable. In the words of Hon. Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, “The rule of law is a protector of democracy and ensures the sustenance of liberty and justice.” Your mandate is to decide each case based on the law, the evidence presented, and your conscience as judge. Let no external influence sway your judgments.”

“Electoral justice requires strict adherence to the principles enshrined in our Constitution, the Electoral Act, and judicial precedents. The Nigerian judiciary has consistently held that the tribunal is a court of both law and facts, You must, therefore, approach each case with diligence and an unwavering commitment to uncover the truth. The responsibility bestowed upon you is both challenging and rewarding.”

” As tribunal members, you are not just arbiters but custodians of democracy. Let me remind you of the admonition of Hon. Justice Niki Tobi, who once said, “Judges must be men and women of integrity, who will not bend the law to suit the whims of the powerful. They must remain resolute, focused, and unyielding in their quest for justice.”

“I urge you to embrace this assignment with humility, courage, and dedication. You are to serve not just the parties before you but the good people of Ogun State and, indeed, the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your legacy will be written not in the number of cases decided, but in the quality of justice dispensed.”

” As you take the oath today, may you be guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and the rule of law. Always remember that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man, and your work in this tribunal has the potential to strengthen the very fabric of our democracy.”

“On behalf of the Ogun State Judiciary and the good people of Ogun State, I pray for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance as you undertake this critical assignment. May justice prevail in all your decisions