Protests and gatherings around court premises in Benue State have been banned by Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The ban as announced by the state government follows the commencement of the Benue State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal.
A statement by the governor’s chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula said the state aims to ensure security of lives and property in the area.
Kula also stated that the state aims to maintain law and order around the court premises and the state at large with the new order.
According to Kula, the court premises had earlier been shut since December 6, 2024, following the ongoing strike action by Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).
However, giving the sensitivity of tne LG tribunal there is need to ensure that serenity is maintained.
While calling on groups and individuals to desist from loitering or protesting around the court area, the stage government assured citizens of the safety throughout the period of the tribunal.
“To ensure the safety and security of all concerned, His Excellency has put in place necessary security measures to protect members of the tribunals, petitioners, respondents, their legal representatives, witnesses, and the tribunal secretariat,” Kula said.
He also stated that violators would be made to face legal consequences should they flout the directive.