IJAP Proposes Two-Level System for Election Petitions in Nigeria: Reduces Complexity

• IJAP proposes a two-level system for election petitions in Nigeria, with appeals terminating at the Court of Appeal except in exceptional circumstances.
• The panel recommends unbundling the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria to reduce the concentration of powers and promote transparency in the judiciary.
• IJAP calls for amendments to the Constitution to enable citizens to institute public interest litigation over breaches of the Electoral Act and the constitution in the conduct of elections.

The panel believes that this system will help reduce the complexity and duration of election litigations, ultimately leading to a more efficient and effective electoral process.

The Independent Judicial Accountability Panel (IJAP) has proposed a two-level system for election petitions in Nigeria, with appeals terminating at the Court of Appeal except in exceptional circumstances. This recommendation is part of IJAP's ongoing efforts to reform the judiciary and promote transparency in the electoral process. The panel believes that this system will help reduce the complexity and duration of election litigations, ultimately leading to a more efficient and effective electoral process. By limiting appeals to the Court of Appeal, IJAP aims to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that election disputes are resolved promptly.

IJAP has also renewed its call for the unbundling of the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to reduce the concentration of powers and promote transparency in the judiciary. The panel argues that this reform is essential to prevent any one person from dominating the judicial process and to ensure that all stakeholders have a say in shaping the electoral landscape. By separating the roles and responsibilities of the CJN, IJAP believes that the judiciary will become more accountable and responsive to the needs of citizens. This, in turn, will help to build trust in the electoral process and promote a more participatory democracy.

In addition to its proposals for election petitions and judicial reforms, IJAP has also called for amendments to the Constitution to enable citizens to institute public interest litigation over breaches of the Electoral Act and the constitution in the conduct of elections. The panel believes that this reform will help to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and representative democracy. By empowering citizens to hold elected officials accountable for their actions, IJAP aims to prevent electoral malpractices and ensure that the electoral process is fair and free from manipulation.

Lawyers should note that IJAP's proposal for a two-level system for election petitions in Nigeria, with appeals terminating at the Court of Appeal except in exceptional circumstances, may impact their clients' electoral litigation strategies and timelines.

Source: Original reporting via Punch Newspapers