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MAKURDI – Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has warned enemies of peace from reversing the gains recorded in Benue State, through dialogue, understanding, and sacrifice.
Reacting to the killing of the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku Muhammad, by some yet to be identified gunmen, the SGF, who expressed outrage at the incident, described the act as “dastardly, reprehensible, unacceptable, and a direct assault on the peace” recorded in Benue.
Recall that Risku Muhammad was shot alongside his friend by assailants on his way home from a meeting last week.
Akume further lamented that the act is a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation, and mutual trust that communities across Benue state have worked painstakingly to rebuild, stressing that communities in the state should reject attempts by criminal elements to sow seeds of discord, hatred, and reprisals.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Sunday, the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, stated that Akume was both shocked and saddened by the development.
The SGF therefore urged residents of Benue state to remain calm, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that would aid ongoing investigations, and continue to support efforts aimed at strengthening peace, security, and harmonious coexistence throughout the state.
According to the statement, “The SGF, Senator George Akume, CON, has expressed profound shock, sadness, and outrage over the gruesome killing of the Benue State Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate.
“Senator Akume describes the dastardly act 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 notes with grave concern that the incident occurred at a time when the state has continued to witness encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious communities.
“He warns that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding, and collective sacrifice.”
Therefore, Senator Akume urged all communities in the state to reject every attempt by criminal elements to sow seeds of discord, hatred, and reprisals, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into their hands.
According to him, lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs, and guaranteeing a better future for all citizens.
Akume, who called on security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation into the matter, insisted that no stone must be left unturned in arresting and prosecuting those connected with the act.
“The SGF extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragic incident.
“Senator Akume calls on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other relevant security agencies to immediately carry out a thorough, transparent, and painstaking investigation into the killings, insisting that no stone must be left unturned in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting everyone connected with the heinous crime.
“He (Akume) recalls that following the horrific killings in Yelwata, he unequivocally demanded that those behind the atrocity be tracked down and brought to justice. 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 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,” the spokesman of the SGF stated.
“Senator Akume reiterates the unwavering commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to confronting insecurity in all its forms across the country.
“The President has continued to provide the nation’s security and intelligence agencies with the necessary support, resources, and strategic direction to decisively tackle criminality and ensure that every part of Nigeria is safe for citizens to live, work, and pursue legitimate livelihoods.”
Throughout his tenure as Governor of Benue, Akume had consistently preached peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural, or religious differences, reiterating that sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.
