Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Suyi Ayodele
Published on 2024-03-28 16:28:24
The Edo State Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal recently made a ruling on the appeals brought before it by candidates of the Edo State Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 local government election. The election was conducted in September 2023 by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC). The tribunal, chaired by Justice Emmanuel Ahamioje, along with Justices Mary Asemota and Aifuwa Imoukhuede, dismissed all the appeals on the grounds of lack of merit.
In delivering the judgment, Justice Ahamioje highlighted the need for the State House of Assembly to review and harmonize certain provisions of the EDSIEC Act to align with federal law. He emphasized the importance of streamlining applicable sections of the EDSIEC Act to ensure consistency in the conduct of local government elections. This is to avoid conflicting provisions from different laws governing the same electoral procedure in local polls.
The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, who also served as counsel for EDSIEC, supported the judge’s recommendations. He expressed agreement with the need for a review of the EDSIEC law to improve the appeal process in the future. Osaze-Uzzi emphasized the importance of aligning the grounds for presenting petitions with the Electoral Act of 2022, which is currently undergoing review. He stressed the importance of establishing a solid legal framework to ensure fair and transparent elections in Edo State.
Out of the twelve appeals initially filed, one from Ovia North East was withdrawn, leaving the tribunal to rule on the remaining eleven. Ultimately, all eleven appeals were struck out by the tribunal for lacking merit.
The ruling of the Edo State Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of electoral processes. By dismissing appeals that lacked merit, the tribunal has upheld the principles of justice and fairness in the conduct of local government elections.
Moving forward, it is essential for the State House of Assembly to consider the recommendations made by the tribunal and take appropriate steps to amend the EDSIEC Act. By aligning with federal law and ensuring consistency in electoral procedures, Edo State can enhance the overall transparency and credibility of its local government elections.
In conclusion, the ruling of the Edo State Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal marks an important milestone in the quest for free and fair elections in the state. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law in the electoral process.
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