The Plateau state election petition tribunal sitting in Jos has warned against frivolous adjournments that will delay it discharge its function effectively.

Tribunal Chairman, Justice Lanre Akeredolu who was speaking at the inauguration of the National and state house of assembly tribunal on Monday said that the tribunal will adhere to the pre-trial conference of 14 days from its commencement.

He said that the tribunal will sit everyday including Saturday and public holidays and added that judgement will be expected to be delivered in 180 days from the day of petition filing.

Akeredolu said that “To achieve the purpose of pre-trial conference, applications for amendment of processes, order of witnesses, streaming of witnesses and documents will be taken. Arguments on objections on point of law will be deferred to final addresses. Live issues for trial will be settled within the period allotted to pre-trial conference.”

The Chairman stated that the time frame was sufficient to receive letters addressed to the Secretary of the tribunal regarding pre-hearing notice. He called on counsels to show respect and assured them that they will be accorded respect.

He said justice will be done to all parties without fear or favour and added that there will be a level playing field across board.

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Plateau election tribunal to deliver judgements in 180 days, warns against frivolous adjournments