Killers of Benue MACBAN chairman must face justice — SGF
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed 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.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings, insisting that they must face the full weight of the law.
The SGF described the attack as “reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.”
He expressed concern that the incident occurred at a time when the state had begun recording notable improvements in security and a gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities.
According to him, enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains achieved through dialogue, mutual understanding and collective sacrifice.
Akume recalled that throughout his tenure as governor of Benue State, he consistently advocated peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, regardless of ethnic, cultural or religious differences.
He stressed that sustainable development and economic prosperity can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
The SGF therefore urged communities across the state to resist any attempt by criminal elements to sow discord, hatred and reprisals, warning that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands.
He added that lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agricultural activities, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for the people of the state.
Akume also extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all others affected by the tragic incident.
He called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent and painstaking investigation into the killings.
According to him, no stone should be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting everyone connected with the crime.
The former Benue governor recalled that after the recent killings in Yelwata, he had demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, noting that suspects in the case had since been apprehended and were standing trial.
“The same determination must be demonstrated in this case. Those responsible for the murder of the MACBAN chairman and his associate must be tracked down and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
“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 also be seen to be done.”
Akume further reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.
He said the President has continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with the necessary support, resources and strategic direction needed to combat criminality and ensure that every part of Nigeria remains safe for citizens to live, work and pursue legitimate livelihoods.
The SGF urged residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing investigations, and continue supporting efforts to strengthen peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.