NJC releases names of judges to hear 2023 elections petitions

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has released names of 257 judges that will hear petitions arising from the 2023 general elections in Nigeria.

Proceedings at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and State Election Petition Tribunals are expected to commence fully in May after the Worker’s Day holiday.

Nigerians have shifted their attention to the tribunals as aggrieved candidates in the February 25 and March 18 contests attempt to overturn victories.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued Certificates of Return to all winners of various positions.

Already, hundreds of petitions have been filed to challenge the outcome of the presidential, National Assembly, governorship and state assembly polls.

But more are expected due to the April 15 supplementary elections in more than 20 states, in view of the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Section 132 (7) & (8) allows for petitions to be filed within 21 days after the declaration of results. The respondents have 21 days to respond, while the court has 180 days to decide.