The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, has inaugurated judges that will serve on the election petition tribunal panels set up for the forthcoming Edo, Ondo governorship elections, and other by-elections.
Speaking on Thursday during the swearing-in of the 85 judges, Justice Muhammad warned the judges against the abuse of public trust, adding that the task before them is a strategic national assignment.
He said their job was important as they would be “deciding the fate of those who would be contesting the highest political offices in Edo and Ondo States respectively and some other political offices in other states.
The CJN urged the judges to discharge their duties with utmost sincerity, honesty and transparency. He charged them to be guided by the law and not be swayed by a sentiment that might play out in the course of their adjudication in the tribunal.
He said: “We have just administered oath on the members of election petition tribunals for the forthcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States as well as other by-elections across the country. This should not be taken as one of those ceremonies merely required to fulfill set procedures. It is a solemn pledge between you and your creator.
“You are expected to conduct your affairs within the ambit of the law and the oath that has just been administered on you as anything short of that will place you on the wrong side of history and God will ask you the questions that you may not be confident enough to answer.
“I can confidently tell you that this is a weighty undertaking you have just signed before the Almighty God. I am saying this because as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, I will not condone any act of recklessness, abuse of power and public trust.
“This is a rare opportunity and you must give a good account of yourselves.”
