NewsNigeriaPoliticsSGF Akume Condemns Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, 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 attack as a grave threat to the peace being restored in the state.

Akume, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, expressed shock, sadness and outrage over the incident.

He described the killings as “reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.”

The SGF noted that the attack was at a time when Benue had begun to witness significant improvements in security and a gradual return to peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious groups.

He warned that those bent on destabilising the state must not be allowed to undermine the gains achieved through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.

Reflecting on his time as governor of Benue State, Akume said he consistently preached “peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences,” adding that lasting development and economic prosperity can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.

He urged communities across the state to resist attempts by criminal elements to incite hatred, division and reprisals, stressing that no individual or group should resort to self-help or take the law into their own hands.

According to him, enduring peace remains the foundation for attracting investment, expanding agricultural activities, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for the people.

The SGF also extended his condolences to the family of the late MACBAN chairman, the association’s leadership and members, as well as everyone affected by the tragedy.

Akume called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other security agencies to launch a thorough and transparent investigation into the killings, insisting that all those responsible must be identified, arrested and prosecuted.

Drawing a parallel with the killings in Yelwata, the former Benue governor recalled that he had demanded the arrest and prosecution of those behind the attack.

“Today, those suspects have been apprehended and are currently standing trial. The SGF insists that the same resolve must be demonstrated in this case, stressing that those responsible for the murder of the MACBAN chairman and his associate must likewise be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement read.

“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 also be seen to be done.”

Akume further reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, saying the President had continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with the support, resources and strategic direction required to combat criminality and ensure the safety of lives and property.

He appealed to residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid investigations, and continue supporting efforts aimed at sustaining peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing.

The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation by tactical police teams in Otukpo Local Government Area after investigations into the deadly attack.

Police described the operation as a major breakthrough in the investigation, adding that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects believed to have participated in the killings.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the arrests represented significant progress in the investigation.

According to the statement, those arrested are Titus Thyodenda, 25; Utibe Sam, 20; Owoicho Ameh, 18; Sunday Useni, 21; Sunday Ogbanje, 46; Daniel Raphael, 23; Adokole John, 24; Samuel Ogazi, 32; Agbo Daniel, 25; and Onazi James, 30.

Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed and Yakubu Isa were ambushed and killed by armed men at Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area on Friday while returning from a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Idekpa, Ohimini Local Government Area.