The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has condemned the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate, describing the attack as a direct assault on the peace and reconciliation efforts in the state.
Akume in a statement issued on Sunday, expressed shock, sadness and outrage over the killings and called on security agencies to ensure that those responsible are swiftly identified, arrested and prosecuted.
“I express profound shock, sadness and outrage over the gruesome killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate.
“This dastardly act is reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.”
The SGF said the incident occurred at a time when Benue State had begun recording encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities.
“It is of grave concern that this incident occurred at a time when the state has continued to witness encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities. Enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.”
Recalling his tenure as Governor of Benue State, Akume said he had consistently promoted peaceful coexistence and unity among residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences, stressing that development can only flourish in a peaceful environment.
“Throughout my tenure as Governor of Benue State, I consistently preached peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences. Sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.”
He urged communities across the state not to allow criminal elements to provoke fresh violence or reprisals.
“I urge all communities in Benue State to reject every attempt by criminal elements to sow seeds of discord, hatred and reprisals. No individual or group should take the law into their hands. Lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for all citizens.”
Akume extended his condolences to the family of the slain MACBAN chairman, the leadership and members of the association, and everyone affected by the tragic incident.
He also directed the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation into the killings.
“I call on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies to immediately carry out a thorough, transparent and painstaking investigation into these killings. No stone must be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting everyone connected with this heinous crime.”
The SGF recalled his demand for justice after the Yelwata killings, noting that those suspects had since been arrested and were facing trial.
“Following the horrific killings in Yelwata, I unequivocally demanded that those behind the atrocity be tracked down and brought to justice. Today, those suspects have been apprehended and are currently standing trial. The same resolve must be demonstrated in this case. Those responsible for the murder of the MACBAN Chairman and his associate must likewise be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law.”
Akume insisted that no individual should escape justice for acts of violence.
“The lives of every Nigerian are sacred. Those who believe they can undermine peace through violence and murder must understand that there will be no hiding place for them. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.”
The SGF further reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to addressing insecurity across the country.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in his commitment to confronting insecurity in all its forms across the country.
“The President has continued to provide the nation’s security and intelligence agencies with the necessary support, resources and strategic direction to decisively tackle criminality and ensure that every part of Nigeria is safe for citizens to live, work and pursue legitimate livelihoods.”
He also appealed to residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing investigations, and continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.
