By Jefferson Ibiwale, Benin

Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, has advised lawyers representing the commission at State Election Petition Tribunal against seeking frivolous motions that will decelerate the process of justice.
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He also warned them to eschew partisanship.

Igini offered the advice via a press statement issued on Thursday in Benin.

He reminded the external solicitors hired by the commission that since their appointment was made by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, ased on their professional merit and competence, the commission expects qualitative and upright representation at the Commission at the Election Petition Tribunal.

“You are appointed to act as counsels to the commission and not to hold brief for the winner of an election per se. In this regards, you are expected to present and explain the steps taken by the Commission’s election officials in making a return in line with extant electoral laws and regulations,’ Igini said.

He also told them that lawyers should place emphasis on upholding and maintaining the transparency and integrity of the electoral process at all times.

“If at the end of proceedings, the tribunal invalidates the outcome of the election, justice would not only have been done but be seen to have been done and this would invariably enhance confidence in the whole electoral processes as well as contributing to the existing stock of legal knowledge,” he said.