Appeal Court President threatens to punish any tribunal judge found wanting

The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa on Wednesday warned that she will descend on any tribunal Judge that is found wanting in the discharge of his or her duties.

The Appeal Court president, who was speaking in Abuja at the induction programme for Justices of the appellate court, chairmen and members of election petition tribunals said, each member of the tribunal shall be closely monitored by her office.

Bulkachuwa who said time is of the essence in election petition urged members of the election petition tribunal to desist from granting frivolous adjournments and to also discourage the practice of employing undue technicalities or any act capable of causing a delay in the dispensation of petitions.

According to her, the judiciary has been a major role player in the sustenance of democracy in the country by adjudicating in all cases that arise from pre-election as well as post-election activities.

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In her words, “I need not remind you that the assignment ahead of you is enormous and due diligence and professionalism is expected from each and every one of you.

“Always be law-abiding and do not allow yourselves to be stirred by emotions, fear, or sentiments. You are expected to be in charge of your courts.

“The judiciary is in the limelight and as judicial officers, we should discharge the responsibilities reposed on us, both individually and collectively by dispensing justice in accordance with the law without fear or favour, affection or ill-will within the dictates of our conscience and oath of office,” she said.