By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA — Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has vowed that those responsible for the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate will be apprehended and brought to justice.
Akume made the declaration in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga.
Expressing shock, sadness and outrage over what he described as the gruesome murder, the SGF stressed that those behind the attack would not escape justice.
“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.
Akume described the killings as reprehensible and unacceptable, saying they constituted a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State had worked hard to rebuild.
He warned that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the security gains achieved in the state through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.
The SGF recalled that following the killings in Yelwata, he had demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible, noting that suspects in that case had since been apprehended and were currently standing trial.
He insisted that the same determination must be demonstrated in the investigation into the murder of the MACBAN chairman and his associate.
Akume called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to carry out a thorough, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident.
“No stone must be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting everyone connected with this heinous crime,” he said.
He also urged communities across Benue State to reject attempts by criminal elements to incite violence, hatred and reprisals, warning against taking the law into their own hands.
“Lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future for all citizens,” he added.
The SGF extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragedy.
He reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, noting that the President had continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with the necessary support, resources and strategic direction to combat criminality and safeguard lives and property.
Akume also 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 promoting peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.
