Edo Labour Party Chairmanship Candidate Petitions Chief Judge Over Delayed LGA Election Tribunal

*Accuses Chief Judge of Flouting Law On LG Election Tribunal

Edo State’s Labour Party Chairmanship Candidate for Oredo Local Government Area, Mr. Yosarting Daniel Ero, has penned an urgent letter to the Chief Judge of Edo State, requesting the prompt establishment of a Local Government Election Tribunal in accordance with Section 78 of the Edo State Local Government Election Law, 2012 (as amended).

In the letter dated September 13, 2023, Mr. Ero expressed deep concern and frustration over the delayed formation of a Local Government Election Tribunal to address disputes arising from the recently concluded Edo State Local Government Elections, which took place on September 2, 2023.

He emphasized that Section 78 of the Edo State Local Government Election Law, 2012, mandates the Chief Judge of Edo State to promptly establish election tribunals following elections to resolve electoral disputes. This provision is fundamental to ensuring fairness, justice, and the rule of law in the democratic process.

Mr. Ero noted that the local elections faced challenges such as voter suppression, violence, and irregularities, leading to disputes among candidates, including himself. Consequently, he instructed his legal team to challenge the conduct and outcome of the elections.

However, as of the date of the letter, no official proclamation had been made regarding the establishment of the Local Government Election Tribunal, and inquiries at the Edo State Judiciary Headquarters yielded no information about the tribunal. This delay infringes on the constitutional right of access to court, especially considering that Section 85 of the same law provides candidates with only 30 days to file their petitions.

Mr. Ero emphasized that the establishment of the Local Government Election Tribunal is a constitutional mandate, and he urged the Chief Judge to take immediate action to set up and communicate the tribunal’s formation without further delay.

This letter underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring that electoral disputes are resolved promptly, preserving the integrity of the electoral process.

Almost two weeks after the Edo Local Government Elections, the Chief Judge of Edo State has not yet established the Election Tribunal as mandated by law.