With Nigeria’s 2027 general elections approaching, the judiciary has inaugurated 375 judges who will handle election petitions arising from the polls across the country.
The judges took their oath of office on Monday, November 9, as part of preparations to ensure the timely resolution of disputes that may emerge from the elections.
The inauguration comes 68 days before the scheduled general elections. It also marks a major step towards setting up the judicial framework for handling challenges to election results.
Under Sections 285(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, the President of the Court of Appeal has the authority to establish Election Petition Tribunals.
These tribunals will hear disputes arising from National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly and governorship elections.
Similarly, Sections 134(3)(a) and (b) of the Electoral Act 2026 provide timelines for establishing the tribunals and opening their registries.
Dongban-Mensem Explains Importance of Election Tribunals
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, described the exercise as an important step in protecting Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
She said the inauguration went beyond a formal ceremony, stressing that it represented the judiciary’s preparation for a major responsibility in the country’s democratic process.
According to her, credible elections require not only proper voting procedures but also impartial and efficient systems for resolving disputes.
She explained that fair decisions on election petitions would help protect voters’ mandates, uphold the Constitution and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.
Dongban-Mensem also reminded the judges that their conduct and decisions would attract significant public attention.
She urged them to remain conscious of the responsibility placed on their shoulders as they prepare to handle sensitive electoral disputes.
138 Returning Judges Among 375 Tribunal Members
The Court of Appeal President disclosed that the 375 judges came from different courts and judicial institutions across Nigeria.
She revealed that 138 of the judges had previously served on election petition tribunals, giving them relevant experience in handling electoral disputes.
The remaining 237 judges are new nominees who will be serving on election tribunals for the first time.
Their inauguration comes as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections, with the judiciary expected to play a critical role in resolving disputes that may follow the polls.