The Adamawa Election Petition Tribunal, on Monday held its inaugural sitting in Yola with a warning against any attempt by anyone or group to compromise the tribunal.
Speaking at the inaugural sitting in Yola, Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Suleiman Akanbi, said the tribunal was committed to justice and fairness to all concerned.
Akanbi said the tribunal has no agents and anyone who approaches the public in the name of the tribunal was on his own. “We don’t entertain phone calls, no text messages; we are here to do justice, we have our names to protect,” Akanbi said.
He urged for support of the public, members of the bar and media towards ensuring fairness, Justice and expeditious trial. “It is a common knowledge that election petitions are Sui generis, i.e unique procedure of its own. To this end, we expect some amount of decorum, cooperation from all and sundry particularly, the Bar as unnecessary adjournments and undue technicalities should as much as possible be avoided in order to ensure fair and speedy dispensation of Justice.
“We will also solicit the support of the media in giving fair and accurate reporting of proceedings. We assure you of our support and cooperation in ensuring that Justice is not only done but manifestly seen to be done.
“We will not condone undue interference, undue influence and consideration of any form. We shall do our duties without fear or favour, affection or ill will,” Akanbi said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Yola NBA, Aji Kamale, assured the tribunal of lawyers support and commitment for speedy dispensation of justice.
In his remarks on behalf of security agencies, Adamawa Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Sani, said the police was committed to providing adequate security during the tribunal sittings.
The tribunal had received 19 cases comprising two for Senate, seven for House of Representatives, and 10 for House of Assembly.
