Benue Gov Alia Condemns MACBAN Chairman's Murder, Orders Security to Find Killers

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the killing of the State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku, vowing that the perpetrators of the heinous act would be tracked down and brought to justice.

The governor described the killing as a senseless and unprovoked act of violence that has no place in a civilised society, expressing deep sorrow over the development.

In a statement, the governor extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the leadership of MACBAN, and members of the pastoralist community in the state over the painful loss.

Alia noted that Risku had played a significant role in fostering dialogue, promoting peaceful coexistence, and supporting government initiatives aimed at addressing the long-standing tensions between farmers and herders in Benue State.

The governor said the killing of such a respected community leader was a major blow to ongoing peace efforts in the state, and warned that anyone seeking to derail the gains being made in the area of security and inter-communal harmony would face the consequences.

He assured the people of Benue State and the leadership of MACBAN that his administration was committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of the killing were identified, arrested, and prosecuted in line with the laws of the land.

Alia directed security agencies in the state to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the killing, identify those behind the act, and ensure that justice is delivered for the slain MACBAN chairman and his family.

He also called on the security forces to step up efforts to protect lives and property across the state, particularly in areas vulnerable to attacks by criminal elements, bandits, and other violent groups.

The governor appealed to the leadership of MACBAN and members of the pastoralist community to remain calm and avoid any form of reprisal, assuring them that justice would be served and the situation handled with the seriousness it deserves.

He stressed that violence and reprisals would only worsen the security situation and undermine ongoing efforts to promote peace, dialogue, and reconciliation among different groups in the state.

Alia reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of all residents of Benue State, regardless of their ethnic, religious, or occupational background, stressing that the lives of all citizens must be protected at all times.

He further called on community leaders, traditional rulers, religious bodies, and other stakeholders to support government efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence, addressing grievances through dialogue, and rejecting violence as a means of resolving disputes.

The governor commended the various peace-building initiatives being carried out across the state by his administration, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders, urging them to intensify their efforts in light of the latest tragic incident.

He used the occasion to reiterate his administration's open-door policy of engagement with all stakeholders, including pastoralists, farmers, and security agencies, in pursuit of lasting peace and security in the state.

The killing of Risku has continued to attract widespread condemnation from various quarters, with stakeholders calling for thorough investigations, prompt justice, and renewed commitment to the peace process in Benue State.

Benue State has, over the years, experienced recurring incidents of violence linked to farmers-herders disputes, banditry, and other security challenges, prompting calls for sustained government action, dialogue, and the implementation of long-term solutions to address the underlying causes of the conflicts.

The governor's condemnation of the killing and his commitment to ensuring justice are expected to strengthen public confidence in the state government's resolve to safeguard the lives of citizens and uphold the rule of law.