The Newly Inaugurated additional members of Election Petition Tribunal have been enjoined to always strike a balance between justice and rule of law as they embark on this critical national assignment.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola gave the advice while swearing-in 39 additional Judges for the election Tribunals in the country.
The CJN reminded the Judges on the significance of the Oath, saying, “by the virtue of this oath, you are now armed with the power to adjudicate on electoral disputes and take decisions in accordance with your convictions, which must be deeply rooted in law and not sentiments or public opinion.”
Justice Ariwoola said, rule of law delayed, is lasting peace denied because justice is a handmaiden of true peace.
He noted that, “we need this in Nigeria more than ever before. The trumpet must first sound from the temple of justice; hence we put you forward as champions of this noble cause.”
While observing that this is not the first oath the members are taking as Judicial Officers, and certainly won’t be the last, especially as they ascend the ladder of their career, Justice Ariwoola warned that “whatever action or inaction you exhibit today will serve as your testament in the annals of the Nigerian judiciary”.
He informed the Judges that, the enormous national assignment, will literally put the contents of their conscience to test, urging them to live above board.
Ariwoola besides told them that, as the members of the Tribunals, there no doubt that they will be exposed to different forms of temptations and even blackmails adding that, he expect them to be mindful of the “oath you have just taken because it now stands as an uncompromising witness between you and your creator”.
Justice Ariwoola said, as judicial Officers, “You must, against all odds, rise above the murky waters of failure and infamy.”
The CJN, while congratulating the new members, advised them to give their very best to the country for posterity.
Lateefah Ibrahim
