In a significant development following the by-elections in Katsina State, President of the Court of Appeal, Monica Dongban-Mensem, has taken decisive action by setting up a tribunal to address any petitions arising from the electoral process. This move comes in the wake of the by-elections held on Saturday, February 3, across 20 polling units in Kankara and Faskari Local Government Areas of the state.
The establishment of the tribunal was announced in a statement signed by the Secretary of the tribunal, Hajiya Aisha Muhammad-Fika in Katsina. The statement emphasized the constitutional and legal basis for the tribunal’s formation, citing 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 as amended.
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According to Muhammad-Fika, Justice Dongban-Mensem has constituted the national and state assembly by-elections tribunal for Katsina State. Furthermore, the Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Danladi, has granted the use of High Courtroom No 5, situated at the state’s High Court of Justice complex for the tribunal.
The statement also made provisions for inquiries from the general public, directing them to contact the Registry/Secretariat of the tribunal. Additionally, it assured that a date for the inaugural sitting of the tribunal would be communicated in due course.
The decision to establish the tribunal underscores the commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that any concerns or disputes arising from the by-elections are addressed through a transparent and impartial mechanism.
In a report by wowplus.net, it was highlighted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted the by-elections in Kankara and Faskari Local Government Areas of the state. The establishment of the tribunal reflects the recognition of the importance of addressing any issues that may have arisen during the electoral process, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring fairness and justice in the democratic process.
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The setting up of the tribunal is a significant development that underscores the importance of ensuring that electoral disputes are resolved in a fair and transparent manner. It serves as a mechanism to address any concerns that may have emerged during the by-elections, reflecting a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
As the tribunal prepares to commence its proceedings, it is poised to play a crucial role in addressing any petitions and ensuring that the by-elections in Katsina State are conducted in accordance with the law and established electoral procedures.
In conclusion, the establishment of the tribunal by President of the Court of Appeal, Monica Dongban-Mensem, reflects a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and the rule of law. It serves as a demonstration of the resolve to ensure that electoral disputes are addressed through a transparent and impartial process, thereby contributing to the integrity of the electoral system.
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