The Chief Judge of Adamawa state and Chairman of the state Judicial Service Commission has officially inaugurated the local government election tribunal and the local government election appeal tribunal. These judicial bodies are established to handle disputes arising from the forthcoming 2026 local government elections in the state.
Legal Basis and Composition
The constitution of the two tribunals was carried out in line with the powers vested in the Chief Judge under Sections 53 and 58 of the Adamawa State Electoral Law, 2002, as amended. The local government election tribunal is chaired by Justice Sadiq Giwa, with Barrister Isa Naziru El-Yaqub and Barrister Aliyu Suleiman serving as members. Abu Lagre was appointed Secretary, while Hayatu Yerima Nuhu will serve as Assistant Secretary. The local government election appeal tribunal comprises Justice Ishaku Yakubu Haliru as President and Justice Mohammed Ibrahim Tola as Member.
Oath of Office and Admonition
Administering the oath of office and oath of allegiance to members of the tribunals, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Audu Balami, urged them to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, impartiality and strict adherence to the law. He stressed the need for members to remain independent, objective and free from bias, favoritism or any form of discrimination in carrying out their adjudicatory duties.
Response from Tribunal Chairmen
Speaking on behalf of the two tribunals, Chairman of the election tribunal, Justice Sadiq Giwa, expressed appreciation to the Chief Judge for the confidence reposed in them. He assured that the tribunals would uphold the trust placed in them by dispensing justice fairly and without fear or favour, in accordance with the law.
Significance
The inauguration of the tribunals is seen as part of preparations aimed at ensuring credible and transparent resolution of electoral disputes ahead of the 2026 local government elections in Adamawa state.
