Benue state governor restricts public access to tribunal venues over election security concerns

DDM News

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has restricted public access to venues hosting election petition tribunals in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo.

The governor cited security concerns as the reason for the directive, aiming to prevent disruptions during the election tribunal proceedings.

Governor Alia issued the directive through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, emphasizing the need to protect all tribunal participants.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) he stated that only authorized tribunal officials would be allowed into the court premises during the election petition hearings.

His administration wants to ensure the safety of judges, lawyers, petitioners, and witnesses involved in the election disputes.

The official statement read, “Recognizing the importance of timely election petitions, only tribunal officials will be granted access to court premises.”

The governor also announced a ban on protests, unauthorized gatherings, and commercial activities around the tribunal venues.

He warned that anyone found violating these restrictions would face legal consequences under existing laws.

The statement emphasized the administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order during the election tribunal proceedings.

“In the interest of public safety, all forms of protest, assemblies, and business activities around tribunals are now prohibited,” it read.

Governor Alia reassured the public that his administration remains dedicated to ensuring a peaceful environment for the election tribunals.

He urged all stakeholders to respect the restrictions to avoid unnecessary security challenges during the hearings.

The decision followed security concerns raised by lawyers representing over 400 respondents in the ongoing election tribunal cases.

Two weeks ago, these legal representatives requested an indefinite adjournment of tribunal proceedings due to insecurity near the venues.

However, the state Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, swiftly rejected their appeal and ordered the tribunals to continue.

In a letter dated February 24, 2025, Justice Ikpambese assured legal practitioners of adequate security arrangements for the hearings.

The letter, signed by the Chief Registrar, Franca Yuwa, directed tribunals to sit as scheduled in their designated locations.

Justice Ikpambese revealed that the judiciary had received strong assurances from the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 4.

Security operatives will be deployed to all tribunal venues to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted election petition process.

Despite the heavy security presence, sporadic protests by hoodlums have been reported near some of the tribunal locations.

In Makurdi, security operatives have clashed with protesters attempting to gather outside the tribunal premises.

Election petition hearings have drawn significant public attention due to the large number of cases under review.

Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are closely monitoring the proceedings, as outcomes could impact the state’s political landscape.

Governor Alia’s restrictions are seen as preventive measures to deter violence that could disrupt the election tribunal process.

Some legal experts support the decision, arguing that security must be prioritized to protect the integrity of the election hearings.

However, others believe the restrictions could limit transparency and public trust in the election petition proceedings.

A Makurdi-based legal practitioner criticized the decision, stating that public access is essential for judicial credibility in election disputes.

He argued that security measures should not compromise transparency or hinder citizens from witnessing the election tribunal process.

Meanwhile, a political analyst in Gboko supported the restrictions, calling them necessary given past election-related violence in Benue State.

“Election disputes often lead to violence, and the government must take proactive measures to prevent disruptions,” he stated.

The tribunal cases involve multiple election disputes, making security a major concern for all parties involved.

Governor Alia’s administration has assured stakeholders that the election tribunal process will proceed without interference.

With security forces on high alert, it remains unclear if further adjustments will be made to these restrictions.

Benue residents and political observers hope the election petitions will be handled fairly and efficiently.

The election tribunal rulings could have long-term implications for Benue State’s political landscape and governance.

Ensuring judicial independence and maintaining security remain top priorities as the tribunals continue their work.

Observers will closely monitor how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks.

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