Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, announced the decision in a statement issued by the Tribunal Secretary, David Umar Mike. The statement further informed litigants and the public of the new venue at the National Judicial Institute on Umar Yar’Adua Way.
While no official reason was provided for the relocation, a reliable source within the Tribunal revealed security concerns as the primary driver. The source detailed several instances of attacks on Tribunal staff in Lokoja, including a recent robbery where armed men stole documents, personal belongings, and official seals.
“Just last Monday, tribunal officials were attacked on the way to the office,” the source revealed. “Armed men pounced on them, robbing them of everything and taking away all the documents in the car. Copies of petitions, personal belongings, official receipts, processes like subpoenas, and official stamps were all stolen.”
The source further commented on the general atmosphere of intimidation and fear created by thugs, making it difficult for Tribunal officials to perform their duties safely.
The relocation of the Tribunal comes amidst the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) challenge of the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) victory in the November 11th off-cycle election. The SDP emerged as the runner-up, and the Tribunal will now consider its petitions in the new Abuja venue.