Election tribunal holds inaugural sitting in Abia state, Nigeria

The National Assembly and state House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Abia on Tuesday held its inaugural sitting with a warning to litigants to avoid influencing its members. Its chairman, Justice Abiodun

Adebara, who led two other judges, Justices Joe Acha and Lawal Mahmoud, gave the warning in Umuahia while addressing litigants, counsel and the public. ``Parties and counsel are forewarned to desist from engaging in any untoward act that may stifle the administration of justice.

In this regard, any attempt to influence the tribunal should be totally avoided as such attempt shall be severely dealt with according to law. ``There should also be no behind-the-door communication between the litigants and, or their counsel with the chairman and members of the tribunal for any reason whatsoever. All communication should be done in the open court. This is in our bid to see that justice is not only done, but seen to have been done,’’ he said. Adebara also warned that time was of the essence in election petitions, pointing out that the tribunal would adhere to constitutional provisions and deliver judgment in any matter within the 180 days from the day of filing as stipulated by law. (News Agency of Nigeria)