The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has condemned the killing of the Benue chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate.

Mr Akume, in a statement on Sunday by his special adviser on media and publicity, Yomi Odunuga, called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings.

The SGF described the incident as a direct attack on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue had worked hard to rebuild over the years.

He expressed concern that the killings occurred at a time when the state was recording improvements in security and peaceful coexistence among its diverse communities.

Mr Akume warned that criminals must not be allowed to undermine the gains achieved through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.

The SGF urged residents of the state to reject attempts to incite hatred, violence and reprisals, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into its own hands.

He maintained that sustainable development and economic prosperity could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.

The SGF extended condolences to the family of the late MACBAN chairman, the association’s leadership and members, and others affected by the incident.

He charged the Nigeria Police Force, the State Security Service (SSS) and other security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent and painstaking investigation into the killings.

According to him, no stone should be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting all those connected with the crime.

Mr Akume recalled that following the killings in Yelwata, he had demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, noting that the suspects had since been apprehended and were standing trial.

He said security agencies must demonstrate the same determination in ensuring justice for the slain MACBAN chairman and his associate.

“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,” he said.

Mr Akume reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, adding that the government had provided security and intelligence agencies with the support, resources and strategic direction required to combat criminality.

He urged residents of Benue to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid ongoing investigations and continue supporting efforts to strengthen peace, security and harmonious coexistence in the state.

(NAN)