The Court of Appeal has constituted an Election Petitions Tribunal to hear and determine any petitions that may arise from the upcoming by-elections in Anambra state. The tribunal’s establishment is a critical step in ensuring electoral justice and providing a legal framework for resolving disputes.
Mr Ibrahim Usman, the secretary of the election tribunal, confirmed the development in a statement issued on wednesday in Awka. He noted that the tribunal will preside over petitions from the Anambra South Senatorial District and Onitsha 1 State Constituency by-elections, which are scheduled for august 16.
The establishment of the tribunal underscores the commitment of the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to a transparent and accountable electoral process. It provides a formal avenue for candidates and political parties to seek legal redress if they believe the conduct or outcome of the elections were compromised.
The respective seats became vacant following the deaths of Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024 and Mr Justice Azuka who was kidnapped and later found dead in February.
Usman said the tribunal would hear and determine petitions which may arise from the conduct of Senatorial and House of Assembly by-elections.
He said the Tribunal Court Hall was located at the High Court of Justice, Judiciary Headquarters Awka.
“This is to notify the general public that Justice M. B. Dongben-Mensen has constituted the National and State Houses of Assembly EPT to hear and determine petitions that may arise from the conduct of Senatorial and State Assembly Bye-Election on Aug.16.
“This is pursuant to the powers conferred on the President, Court of Appeal by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
“Sequel to the above, the Hon. Chief Judge of Anambra State, Hon. Justice Onochie M Anyachebelu has granted the use of the Tribunal Court Hall located at High Court of Justice, Judiciary Headquarters Awka, Anambra State for the use of the Tribunal,” he said.
Usman said members of the public who wish to make enquiry were advised to contact the Registry/Secretariat of the Tribunal at the above mentioned address.
