Alia mourns slain MACBAN Chairman, directs security agencies to track killers

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the killing of the state Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his friend.

Governor Alia described the incident as a tragic development and a direct attempt to undermine the peace and stability gradually returning to various parts of the state.

In a statement made available to journalists in Makurdi on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor said he was deeply worried by the unfortunate incident, noting that it occurred at a particularly sensitive time when efforts at reconciliation and peaceful coexistence were yielding positive results.

According to the governor, the heinous act came shortly after a security meeting and has the potential to disrupt the atmosphere of peace that his administration has worked tirelessly to build.

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

Governor Alia further emphasized that the killing of any community leader or advocate of peace represents a serious setback to ongoing dialogue and reconciliation efforts among various stakeholders in Benue State.

Consequently, he directed all relevant security agencies to immediately launch a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.

The governor also ordered security operatives to leave no stone unturned in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators of the crime and ensuring that they are brought to justice without delay.

He further directed security agencies to strengthen protective measures for community leaders and individuals actively involved in peace-building and security initiatives across the state.

While lamenting the tragic incident, Governor Alia urged 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.

The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku and the entire MACBAN community, assuring them that the government remains committed to ensuring justice and 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,” Governor Alia stated.

The killing of the MACBAN chairman has sparked concerns among residents and stakeholders, with many expressing hope that the swift intervention of security agencies will lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the crime and prevent any breakdown of law and order in the state.