For Immediate release
PRESS STATEMENT
Tuesday, March 4 2025
Gentlemen of the Press,
The Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, in his capacity as the Chief Security Officer of the State and in line with his constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, hereby issues the following directives:
It is on record that court premises in Benue State have remained closed since December 6, 2024 due to the ongoing strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).
Consequently, all individuals and groups are directed to refrain from carrying out any form of activity within or around the court premises until further notice.
His Excellency acknowledges that the Local Government Election Petition Tribunals are utilizing some court halls for their proceedings. Recognizing the time-bound nature of election petitions, he has directs that only the Election Petition Tribunals be allowed access to the designated court premises where they are sitting.
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.
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.
His Excellency guarantees a peaceful atmosphere for the continued sittings of the Benue State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal in the open court in Benue State, ensuring that due process is followed without any form of interference.
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.
His Excellency reaffirms that since assuming office, Benue State has enjoyed relative peace on the security front, though some challenges persist.
He assures the people of Benue that his administration remains committed to enhancing security and ensuring a safe and peaceful state for all.
Thank you all and God bless Benue State.:
Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
