BREAKING: Gov Alia bans protests, unauthorised gatherings within court premises

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has prohibited all protests, unauthorised gatherings, and commercial activities within and around the court premises hosting the Benue State Local Government Election Petitions Tribunals.

The directive, announced Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula, comes amid rising concerns over the ongoing tribunal hearings.

The statement recalled that since December 6, 2024, the court facilities have been closed due to a strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN). Consequently, all individuals and groups are instructed to avoid any activity on or around the court premises until further notice.

The Governor emphasized his commitment to maintaining a peaceful environment for the tribunals, which are currently being held in open courts, and assured that due process will be observed without interference. Highlighting the time-sensitive nature of election petitions, he stressed that only the Election Petition Tribunals are permitted access to the designated areas.

To ensure the safety of all parties—including tribunal members, petitioners, respondents, their legal representatives, witnesses, and the tribunal secretariat—enhanced security measures have been put in place. In the interest of law and order, any violation of the ban on protests, unauthorized gatherings, or commercial activities such as hawking around the courts will result in legal action.

Governor Alia urged the public to remain calm and patient as they await the tribunal decisions, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a secure and peaceful environment in Benue State.