SGF condemns death of Benue MACBAN Chairman, demands swift arrest of perpetrators
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume has condemned the gruesome killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), alongside his associate.
In an statement released on Sunday by Yomi Odunuga, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, the federal official described the attack as an assault on the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in Benue State.
He warned that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the security gains achieved through community dialogue and collective sacrifice.
Senator George Akume directed the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to launch an immediate, transparent investigation into the killings.
He drew a parallel to a previous attack in Yelwata, noting that the suspects in that case were successfully tracked down and are currently standing trial.
He insisted that the same decisive resolve must be applied to fish out the killers of the MACBAN leader.
“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.
Reflecting on his tenure as the former Governor of Benue State, Senator George Akume reiterated that sustainable economic development and agricultural expansion can only thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance.
He urged local communities to reject attempts by criminal elements to incite hatred or reprisal attacks, cautioning citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
The statement also reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackling insecurity nationwide, noting that the presidency will continue providing the necessary strategic direction and resources to ensure all parts of Nigeria remain safe.
The SGF extended his condolences to the families of the victims and the leadership of MACBAN, while urging Benue residents to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies by providing credible information to aid the investigation.