*Says Only Election Tribunals Allowed at Court Premises
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued a ban on all activities within and around court premises in the state until further notice. This directive comes amid the ongoing strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), which has kept courts in the state closed since December 6, 2024.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia acknowledged that the Local Government Election Petition Tribunals are utilizing certain court halls for their proceedings. Given the time-sensitive nature of election petitions, the Governor clarified that only the tribunals would be allowed access to the designated court premises. He further assured that adequate security measures have been put in place to facilitate their smooth operation.
To maintain order, the Governor explicitly banned protests, unauthorized gatherings, and commercial activities such as hawking around the court premises. He warned that anyone found violating the directive would face legal consequences.
“In the interest of maintaining law and order, His Excellency bans any form of protest, unauthorized gathering, or commercial activities such as hawking within and around the court premises. Anyone found violating this directive will face legal consequences,” the statement read.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring that the tribunal’s proceedings are conducted without interference. He also reassured the public that Benue State continues to experience relative peace despite some security challenges.
“As a firm believer in the judiciary and the rule of law, His Excellency urges members of the public to remain calm and patient as they await the tribunal’s decisions,” the statement added.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to strengthening security and fostering a safe and peaceful environment across the state.
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