The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, has ordered security operatives in the state to release all protesters arrested during the recent demonstrations.
Recall that torrents of young people stormed the streets of Benue to protest the recent mass killings of residents, which was allegedly done by armed herdsmen.
Reacting to news that the demonstrators were arrested, Dajoh on the floor of the Housse on Tuesday ordered the immediate release of the protesters, which are mostly young people.
Speaking on the floor of the Assembly, Speaker Dajoh reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to democratic principles and the constitutional rights of all Benue citizens.
“Peaceful protest is a constitutional right, no one should be punished for exercising their voice in a democratic society.”
The Speaker’s pronouncement was met with applause from fellow lawmakers and hailed by civil rights advocates as a bold stance in defence of civil liberties.
Dajoh further called on security agencies to respect the rights of peaceful demonstrators and ensure that future engagements with the public are carried out with professionalism and restraint.
The Assembly pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrests and to engage relevant authorities to prevent a recurrence.
