The Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has officially sworn in a nine-member Local Government Election Petition Tribunal to adjudicate disputes arising from the November 16th local government elections in the state.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the conference hall of the Judiciary Complex in Kobape, Abeokuta, the state capital.
The tribunal is made up of five men and four women, in accordance with the provisions of Section 85 (1 and 3) of the Electoral Law of Ogun State.
In her address, Justice Dipeolu urged the tribunal members to approach their duties with the utmost diligence and commitment.
She reminded them that their task is both challenging and rewarding, stressing the importance of uncovering the truth in each case.
“You have been carefully chosen for this task as the integrity of your decisions will not only affect the immediate parties involved but will also resonate across the state, shaping the public’s faith in the judiciary and in democracy itself,” Justice Dipeolu stated.
She emphasized the importance of fairness, equity, and the rule of law in their judgments, urging the tribunal members to shun corruption and remain impartial.
She said “Justice is rooted in confidence, and confidence is destroyed when right-minded people go away thinking: the judge was biased.”
Justice Dipeolu also highlighted the essential role of the judiciary in protecting democracy, saying,
“The rule of law is the cornerstone of any civilized society, and its observance is non-negotiable.”
She further reminded the tribunal members that their decisions should be based on the law, the evidence presented, and their consciences as judges.
“Let no external influence sway your judgments,” she added.
The Chief Judge also referenced the wisdom of Justice Niki Tobi, urging the members to remain resolute and unyielding in their quest for justice, regardless of external pressures.
As the tribunal members took their oaths, Justice Dipeolu called on them to serve the people of Ogun State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria with humility, courage, and dedication.
She concluded with a prayer for divine guidance, hoping their decisions would strengthen democracy and reinforce the public’s trust in the judicial system.
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