Benue Governor Demands Justice Over MACBAN Leader’s Murder

The Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. 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 friend, describing the incident as a tragic attempt to undermine the peace and stability gradually returning to the state.
Speaking through a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia expressed deep shock and sadness over the incident, noting that it occurred at a particularly sensitive time when Benue is witnessing significant improvements in peace and security across several local government areas.
He said the killing was not only a tragedy for the state but also a direct attack on the atmosphere of reconciliation and peaceful coexistence that his administration has worked tirelessly to promote.
“It is deeply regrettable that this unfortunate incident occurred shortly after a security meeting,” the governor stated, emphasizing that the killing of any community leader or peace advocate is a major setback to ongoing dialogue among stakeholders in the state.
Governor Alia directed all relevant security agencies to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killings.
He instructed them to leave no stone unturned in identifying and apprehending those responsible, stressing that they must be brought to justice swiftly to serve as a deterrent to others seeking to destabilize the state.
The governor also urged security agencies to strengthen measures aimed at protecting community leaders involved in peace-building and security initiatives.
While expressing regret over the unfortunate development, Governor Alia appealed to members of MACBAN and the general public to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding.
“We must not allow those who profit from chaos to succeed in inciting further violence or disrupting the peace we have taken time to build,” he said.
Governor Alia extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku and the entire MACBAN community, assuring them that his administration remains committed to sustaining peace in the state.
“Our administration remains resolute: Benue is a home for peace, and we will not allow the shadows of the past to eclipse the bright future we are currently building,” the statement added.