The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, 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.
According to an official signed statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Yomi Odunuga, Senator Akume expressed profound shock, sadness and outrage over the gruesome killings, describing the incident as reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct threat to the fragile peace that communities across Benue State have worked tirelessly to restore.
The SGF noted that the attack came at a time when the state was witnessing encouraging improvements in security and a gradual return to peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious groups. He warned that those seeking to undermine the progress achieved through dialogue, mutual understanding and collective sacrifice must not be allowed to succeed.
Senator Akume reiterated his long-standing commitment to peaceful coexistence among all residents of Benue State, stressing that sustainable development, economic prosperity and social stability can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
He called on communities across the state to resist every attempt by criminal elements to incite hatred, violence and reprisals, urging citizens not to take the law into their own hands.
“Lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for all citizens,” the SGF stated.
Senator Akume extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragic incident.
The SGF also directed the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to launch a thorough, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the killings, insisting that every individual connected to the crime must be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
Recalling the killings in Yelwata, Senator Akume said he had similarly demanded that those responsible be brought to justice, noting that the suspects in that case had since been apprehended and were currently facing trial. He insisted that the same determination should be applied in ensuring justice for the slain MACBAN chairman and his associate.
“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,” he declared.
The SGF further reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to addressing insecurity across the country, noting that the President has continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with the resources, support and strategic direction required to confront criminality and safeguard lives and property nationwide.
He urged residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid ongoing investigations, and continue supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.
Senator Akume stressed that preserving peace remains a shared responsibility, assuring Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to work with security agencies and community leaders to ensure that those responsible for acts of violence are brought to justice while sustaining efforts to build lasting peace in Benue State and across the country.
