Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the killing of the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku, and one other. 

Tersoo Kula, the governor’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, saying that Mr Alia expressed shock and sadness over the killings and ordered an immediate investigation.

“The heinous act came at a particularly sensitive time when the state is witnessing a significant return to peace and stability across various local government areas,” he said. 

Mr Kula stated that the governor viewed the incident not only as a tragedy for the state but also as a direct attempt to undermine the hard-earned peace and atmosphere of reconciliation that his administration has worked tirelessly to foster.

“It is deeply regrettable that this unfortunate incident occurred shortly after a security meeting”.

He further emphasised that the killing of any community leader or peace advocate is a blow to the ongoing dialogue among various stakeholders in the state.

Mr Kula said the governor had directed all relevant security agencies to launch a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killings.

“To leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators of the heinous act and bring them to justice swiftly to serve as a deterrent to others who seek to destabilize the state.

“Enhanced security measures to ensure that community leaders engaging in security and peace-building efforts are protected,” he added.

Mr Kula urged members of MACBAN and the general public to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that the government regretted the setback.

“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”.

The Benue State Government extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr Risku and the entire MACBAN community.

“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”, he stated.