Akwa Ibom CJ Inaugurates 15-Member Tribunal for Local Government Election Petitions

On Monday, Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, officially inaugurated a 15-member Local Government Election Petition Tribunal. The panel, composed of representatives from the state’s three senatorial districts, will address petitions arising from local government elections.

The tribunal consists of five members from each senatorial district: Uyo, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene.

Justice Obot emphasized that the inauguration fulfills sections 43 and 45(1) of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2024 (as amended). During the ceremony, she urged the tribunal members to uphold the highest standards of their legal profession, highlighting the importance of diligence, integrity, and professionalism in their work.

“Ensure that you conduct yourselves with honor, respect, and dignity, as expected in our noble profession. You must avoid any form of compromise,” Obot advised the members.

She also reminded the tribunal that their tasks are time-sensitive, urging them to handle cases with care and efficiency. “Local government elections are grassroots elections and vital to the functioning of the entire system,” she added.

The panel members include George Ituen, Esq. (Chairman), Comfort Gladstone, Esq., Sunday Udo Abasiubong, Esq., Unyime Joseph Akpan, Esq., and Godwin Thompson Nkorok, representing Uyo Senatorial District.

For Eket Senatorial District, the members are Peter Ndem, Esq. (Chairman), Emmanuel Akpan, Esq., Margaret Ekere, Esq., Mr. Usen Eden, and Abasiadoama Etim.

Representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District are Samuel Akpabio, Esq. (Chairman), Peter Ime Akpan, Esq., Ime Richard Utah, Esq., Udeme Tom, Esq., and Mrs. Jersey Ekpo.