The Akure branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Ondo State has called for the conclusion of all election cases before the winners declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are sworn into office.

The NBA branch stated this in a communiqué it issued yesterday by the branch chairman, Onimisi Umar, at the end of this year’s Law Week held in Akure between November 9 and 14 in honour of Senator Bode Olajumoke, a former lawmaker representing Ondo North.

The theme of the Law Week was: Nigeria: Quest for Utilitarian Judiciary and Role for Stakeholders.

The association aligned itself with the ongoing proposal by the National Assembly for constitutional amendment to ensure that all election disputes are fully resolved within a reduced timeframe.

The Bill proposes the cutting of the 180 days allowed for tribunal judgments to 90 days, with expedited processes up to the Supreme Court.

According to the communiqué, the reform will ensure that declared winners do not assume office while their election is still being contested, thereby strengthening electoral integrity and public trust.

“It is suggested that election disputes should be resolved or determined before candidates are sworn into office,” the NBA said in the communique obtained by The Nation.

It urged the legislature to enact clearer and less ambiguous electoral laws to reduce the loopholes often exploited by politicians.

The association warned against excessive judicial involvement in election matters, saying overburdening courts would undermine the timely handling of regular cases.

It called for a balance that places greater responsibility for electoral integrity on the executive and legislative arms without compromising justice.

Also, the communiqué criticised what it called the persistent financial dependence of the judiciary on the executive arm of government, which it said remains a major threat to judicial independence.

“The judiciary is severely compromised by financial dependence on the executive, undermining its ability to function impartially and effectively,” the association stated.

Source; The Nation News