Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, describing the incident as a heinous act and a calculated attempt to undermine the prevailing peace and reconciliation efforts in Benue.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor declared that those responsible for the murder would not escape justice. He directed security agencies to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack and ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted.
The MACBAN chairman was reportedly killed alongside a companion by unidentified gunmen after attending a security meeting in Otukpo. The governor noted that the incident occurred at a sensitive time when the state was witnessing a significant return to peace and stability across several local government areas.
Governor Alia described the killing as not only a tragedy but also a major setback to ongoing dialogues among stakeholders working to restore lasting peace. He ordered enhanced security measures to protect community leaders involved in peace-building initiatives and appealed to members of MACBAN and the general public to remain calm and law-abiding.
While expressing regret over the unfortunate incident, the governor extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku and the entire MACBAN community. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and peace, stating that Benue remains a home for peace and that his government will not allow the shadows of the past to eclipse the progress being made.
