We’re compiling, studying tribunal judgments – INEC – TheNigerialawyer

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday
said that it is taking note and compiling judgments at various
electoral tribunals.

The Commission, however, said that it would not be able to take
action now until 21 days on the outcome of tribunal judgments

The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter
Education Committee, Mr. Festus Okoye said the law allows the
Commission to stay action for 21days as the aggrieved party has 21
days within which to appeal.

The aggrieved candidate he further explained is empowered to
remain in the office within the said period.

Okoye who was responding to inquiry from The Nation Newspaper on
some of the tribunal rulings said “The Commission is harvesting,
compiling and studying the judgements of the various Tribunals
across the country. Some of the Tribunals nullified some elections
and ordered reruns in some polling units, electoral wards and
constituencies. Some of the Tribunals gave the Commission 30 to 90
days to comply with the judgements.

However, section 143 of the Electoral Act 2010(as amended)
obligates the Commission to stay action for 21days as the aggrieved
party has 21 Day’s within which to appeal. The aggrieved candidate
remains in the office within the said period.

“The Commission will, within the constitutional and electoral
framework give effect to the judgements of all the Election
Petitions Tribunals.”

He also added that “The Resident Electoral Commissioners are
closely monitoring proceedings in all the Tribunals and we have
regular updates from our in-house Lawyers and External
Solicitors.

“We are committed to our electoral responsibilities and will at
all times keep Nigerians informed of our activities.”