Edo Chief Judge Inaugurates LG Election Tribunal to Hear Petitions

From Ebohon Joan

The Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, has inaugurated the State Local Government Election Tribunal to handle petitions arising from the July 11, 2026 local government elections.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday in Benin City, where Justice Bright Oniha was sworn in as chairman of the three-member tribunal. The panel also includes Justice Ovenseri Otamere and Justice Godwin Okundamiya.

Addressing the tribunal members, Justice Okungbowa urged them to carry out their responsibilities with fairness, impartiality, and integrity. He emphasized that all proceedings must be guided by transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law.

According to the Chief Judge, the tribunal plays a vital role in strengthening democracy at the grassroots, stressing that justice must not only be delivered but must also be seen to be done.

Speaking on behalf of the panel, Justice Oniha thanked the Chief Judge for the confidence placed in them and pledged that the tribunal would discharge its duties professionally and in accordance with the law.

He assured that the panel would carefully consider all petitions brought before it and ensure that its decisions comply with the relevant legal provisions.

The inauguration officially marks the commencement of the tribunal’s work in hearing and determining disputes arising from the local government elections.

The tribunal was constituted in line with Section 78(2) of the Edo State Local Government Electoral Law, 2012. A statement issued by the Edo State Chief Registrar, Benson Osawaru, confirmed that the composition of the panel complies with the provisions of the amended electoral law.