The Chief Judge of Taraba State, Justice Joel Agya, has urged the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission to uphold fairness, transparency and impartiality in the conduct of local government elections, warning that loss of public confidence in the electoral process could weaken the legitimacy of public institutions.
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Agya made the call on Thursday when he received members of TSIEC on a courtesy visit in Jalingo.
The Chief Judge described the commission as a critical institution in the state’s democratic structure, noting that local government remained the tier of government closest to the people.
According to him, the credibility of local government elections determines the extent to which citizens participate in the democratic process, accept electoral outcomes and hold elected representatives accountable.
“When local elections are credible, the people are encouraged to participate, accept lawful outcomes and hold elected representatives accountable.
“When confidence is eroded, the consequences extend beyond the ballot box and weaken the legitimacy of public institutions,” he said.
Agya stressed that public confidence in elections must be earned through transparency, consistency, openness and strict adherence to electoral regulations.
He said political parties, candidates and voters must be treated fairly, while electoral procedures should be clearly communicated and decisions taken without fear, favour or undue influence.
The Chief Judge maintained that the credibility of an election should not be measured only by the final declaration of results but also by the fairness of the processes leading to the outcome.
He therefore urged TSIEC to strengthen the capacity and discipline of its personnel through regular training, voter education, accurate documentation, effective communication and constructive engagement with political parties and other stakeholders.
Agya also called on the commission to address barriers to electoral participation, particularly those affecting women, persons with disabilities, young people and residents of remote communities.
He advised TSIEC to prioritise the prevention of electoral disputes through clear guidelines, timely information and consistent enforcement of electoral regulations.
On the relationship between the commission and the Judiciary, Agya reaffirmed the commitment of the courts to the fair, impartial and timely administration of justice.
He assured that electoral disputes brought before the courts or duly constituted tribunals would be determined in accordance with the law and the evidence presented.
“Every party will be entitled to a fair hearing, and every matter will be approached with the independence, neutrality and fidelity to justice required of the judicial office,” Agya said.
The Chief Judge, however, stressed that the relationship between TSIEC and the Judiciary must be guided by mutual respect for their separate constitutional and institutional responsibilities.
According to him, cooperation between both institutions was desirable where it promoted lawful administration, public enlightenment and respect for due process, but must not compromise judicial independence.
“The Judiciary does not conduct elections, and the Commission does not adjudicate disputes. Each institution has its own mandate.
“Yet both institutions serve the same constitutional order, and both are bound by the same higher obligation: to protect the rule of law and preserve the confidence of the people,” he said.
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