The Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, on Thursday inaugurated the State Local Government Election Tribunal in Benin to adjudicate petitions arising from the recently concluded local government elections.
Justice Bright Oniha was sworn in as chairman of the three-member tribunal panel. The other members are Justice Ovenseri Otamere and Justice Godwin Okundamiya.
While inaugurating the panel, Justice Okungbowa charged the members to uphold judicial impartiality and fairness in the discharge of their duties. He stressed that integrity, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law must guide all proceedings before the tribunal.
The Chief Judge described the assignment as critical to the sustenance of democracy at the grassroots level. He urged the tribunal to ensure that “justice is not only done but is seen to be done.”
Responding on behalf of the panel, Justice Oniha expressed appreciation to the Chief Judge for the confidence reposed in them. He assured that the tribunal would diligently carry out its mandate in full accordance with the law.
“The tribunal will do its utmost best to deliver on its mandate diligently and in line with legal provisions,” Oniha stated.
The inauguration formally clears the way for the hearing and determination of petitions arising from the July 11, 2026 local government elections.
The tribunal is in line with Section 78(2) of the Edo State Local Government Electoral Law, 2012. A statement signed by the Edo Chief Registrar, Benson Osawaru, confirmed that the composition of the panel complies with the provisions of the amended electoral law.