Rivers State Chief Judge Constitutes Tribunal and Appeals Panel for Local Council Election Petitions

Justice Amadi inaugurates panels to review and address disputes arising from the recent local government elections in Rivers State

The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, has officially established the Rivers State Local Government Election Petitions Tribunal and Appeals Panel. These bodies have been tasked with hearing petitions and addressing disputes that stemmed from the recently concluded council elections in the state.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Registrar of the Rivers State High Court, David Ihua-Maduenyi, the tribunal, initially scheduled for inauguration on October 4, 2024, was formally constituted on October 7, 2024. The Rivers State Election Petitions Tribunal has been divided into three panels, each assigned to handle various cases, while the Appeals Panel remains a single body.

The first panel is led by Chief Magistrate Rosemary N. Ibanibo, with Precious Dike and Emmanuel Evans-Dappa serving as members. Chief Magistrate Menenen Poromon chairs the second panel, with Grace Ikenyiri and Benedict Neenador Kinaka as members. The third panel is chaired by Chief Magistrate Betty Sunny-Hart, with G. S. Minanyo and Mabel Amesi completing the team.

In addition, Justice Opufaa Ben-Whyte heads the Local Government Election Appeals Panel, supported by Justice Frank Onyiri and Justice Ibietela Madighi-Obu. The Rivers State Election Petitions Tribunal and Appeals Panel will play a key role in resolving the issues arising from the elections, ensuring that every petition is treated fairly.

Justice Amadi urged all members of the tribunal and the appeals panel to uphold justice, fairness, and integrity in their deliberations. He emphasized the importance of carrying out their responsibilities with a strong sense of duty and the fear of God.