Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, 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 incident as a direct attack on the peace efforts in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor expressed deep shock and sadness over the killings, which he said occurred at a time when Benue was beginning to witness improved peace and stability across several local government areas.
Alia described the incident as a tragic development capable of undermining the gains recorded through sustained reconciliation and dialogue among various groups in the state.
According to the governor, the killing of a community leader and peace advocate represents a setback to ongoing efforts aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among residents.
He, therefore, directed security agencies to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killings and ensure that those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted.
The governor urged law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
While expressing regret over the incident, Alia appealed to members of MACBAN and the general public to remain calm, avoid taking the law into their hands and continue to support efforts to maintain peace in the state.
He also extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, his associate and the entire MACBAN community, assuring them that the state government would work with security agencies to ensure justice is served.
