Press Release
The Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, Hon. Jonathan Modi Ta, has announced an immediate ban on all forms of protest, demonstration and mob action in the local government, with particular emphasis on Zaki Biam and its environs.
This directive follows the recent spate of unauthorized protests, which were infiltrated and exploited by criminal elements, resulting in the wanton destruction of government-owned and private properties — a grave violation of public order and the rule of law.
While the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally guaranteed, Modi said any individual or group intending to organize a protest must strictly adhere to established procedures.
A statement by the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Chairman, Samuel Terkuma Atsua, said all those intending to hold the prohibited activities must seek and obtain approval from the chairman.
The statement reads: “This involves formally seeking and obtaining approval from the office of the Executive Chairman as well as notifying the appropriate security agencies.
“Such measures are intended to ensure adequate security arrangements to protect lives, properties, and uphold public order during any lawful assembly.
“The Executive Chairman further warned that any individual found organizing or participating in unauthorized protests will be apprehended and prosecuted according to the law, and shall face the full weight of appropriate punitive measures.
“This action, the Hon chairman.reiterated, is undertaken in the paramount interest of peace, security, and the protection of both public and private assets within Ukum Local Government Area.”
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