The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume has expressed 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.
Senator Akume described the dastardly act as reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.
In a statement by his spokesman, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF noted with grave concern that the 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.
He warned that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.
Senator Akume, who throughout his tenure as Governor of Benue State consistently preached peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences, reiterated that sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
He therefore urged all communities in Benue State to reject every attempt by criminal elements to sow seeds of discord, hatred and reprisals, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into their hands.
According to him, lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for all citizens.
The SGF extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragic incident.
Senator Akume called 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 the killings, insisting that no stone must be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting everyone connected with the heinous crime.
He recalled that following the horrific killings in Yelwata, he 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 SGF insisted that the same resolve must be demonstrated in this case, stressing that 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.
“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 stated.
Senator Akume further reiterated the unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to confronting insecurity in all its forms across the country.
He noted that 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.
The SGF urged all residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations, and continue to support all efforts aimed at strengthening peace, security and harmonious coexistence throughout the state.
