By Becky Momodu
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 grave assault on the peace and reconciliation efforts in the state.
In a statement signed on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume expressed shock, sadness and outrage over the incident, insisting that those responsible must be swiftly identified, arrested and prosecuted.
He said the killings came at a time when Benue State had begun recording improvements in security and rebuilding peaceful coexistence among its diverse communities, warning that criminal elements must not be allowed to reverse the gains achieved through dialogue and collective sacrifice.
According to the SGF, sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
He therefore urged residents of the state to reject attempts to incite violence or reprisals and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
Akume, who served as Governor of Benue State, reiterated his long-standing commitment to peaceful coexistence, stressing that unity among people of different ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds remains essential for the state’s progress.
He extended condolences to the family of the late Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragedy.
The SGF called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the killings, insisting that “no stone must be left unturned” in bringing all those connected with the crime to justice.
He recalled that after the recent killings in Yelwata, he had demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, noting that the suspects had since been apprehended and were currently standing trial.
Akume urged security agencies to demonstrate the same determination in the murder of the MACBAN chairman.
“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,” Akume said.
The SGF also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, noting that the President has continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with the resources and strategic support required to combat criminality and ensure the safety of citizens.
He appealed to residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid investigations, and continue supporting efforts to strengthen peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.