The Ondo State Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odutola, on Thursday inaugurated two sets of local government election petitions tribunals to try electoral cases that may emanate after the state January 18, 2025, Local government election.
They are; Dr Dickson Omotuyole Oguntuyi, Mrs Ruth Olumilua Adebodun, Mr Kehinde Aladedutire, Mrs Aduroja Folasade Atinuke, Mr Lebi Taiwo Olalekan and Mr Victor Adetiloye Ajayi.
In the inauguration ceremony which was held at the Conference hall of the Ondo state High Court, Odusola said the appointed Chairmen and members of the tribunal were designated to preside over election petition tribunals.
According to him: “this occasion underscores the vital role of the judiciary in safeguarding democracy, upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice depended without fear or favour.“
He said elections are the bedrock of democracy , as it allows the people to choose their leaders according to their wills, saying that whenever disputes arises the judiciary becomes a point of call to interprete the law, resolve conflicts and restore public confidence in the electoral processes.
While addressing the newly inaugurated members, Odusola said the task before them is critical and delicate.
”You are not only the arbiters of justice but also guardians of democracy. Your decision will shape public trust , the integrity and Impartiality with which you approach this responsibility will determine the credibility of the outcomes and the stability of our democratic framework”. he stated.
He advised them to discharge their responsibility with discreet as justice must not only be done but must be manifestly seen to be done by not been biased , prejudice or predisposition.
“ Your decisions must be based on the law, evidence, and the fact before you. Avoid the influence of external pressure or public opinion as the law is bound to take its cause. You are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards, knowing that your conduct reflects on the entire judiciary.“
He also called on the public to imbibe patient and respect for the judicial process by trusting in the system and refraining from actions or utterances that may undermine the judiciary or jeopardize peace.
