On Monday, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, inaugurated a 15-member tribunal dedicated to handling petitions arising from local government elections in the state.
The tribunal consists of five representatives from each of the three senatorial districts: Uyo, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene.
During the inauguration, Justice Obot emphasized that the establishment of the tribunal is in accordance with Sections 43 and 45(1) of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2024 (as amended).
She urged the tribunal members to adhere strictly to the ethics of the legal profession, ensuring diligence, integrity, and respect in their duties. “Please, as you start your work, ensure that you conduct yourselves properly within the ethics of our profession and avoid any form of compromise,” Justice Obot stated.
She further reminded the panel of their time-sensitive mandate, highlighting the importance of local government elections as the foundation of the democratic system. “You must individually be careful in how you conduct yourselves. Approach your responsibilities with respect, dignity, and honor typical of our noble profession,” she added.
The members of the tribunal are as follows:
Uyo Senatorial District:
– George Ituen, Esq. (Chairman)
– Comfort Gladstone, Esq.
– Sunday Udo Abasiubong, Esq.
– Unyime Joseph Akpan, Esq.
– Godwin Thompson Nkorok, Esq.
Eket Senatorial District:
– Peter Ndem, Esq. (Chairman)
– Emmanuel Akpan, Esq.
– Margaret Ekere, Esq.
– Usen Eden, Esq.
– Abasiadoama Etim, Esq.
Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District:
– Samuel Akpabio, Esq. (Chairman)
– Peter Ime Akpan, Esq.
– Ime Richard Utah, Esq.
– Udeme Tom, Esq.
– Mrs. Jersey Ekpo.