…reaffirms Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has directed the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to immediately fish out those responsible for the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, insisting they must be arrested and prosecuted.

Akume, in a statement issued on Sunday and made available to newsmen in Makurdi by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Yomi Odunuga, described the killings as “reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust” that communities across Benue State have worked hard to rebuild.

The SGF expressed shock, sadness and outrage over the gruesome murder, warning that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the security gains recorded in the state through dialogue and collective sacrifice.

He charged security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident saying “the same resolve demonstrated in the investigation of the Yelewata killings must be shown in this case. 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,” Akume said.

Recalling the Federal Government’s response to the Yelewata killings, the SGF noted that suspects arrested in connection with the attack were already standing trial, expressing confidence that justice would also be served in the MACBAN chairman’s murder.

“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 added.

Akume said the incident occurred at a time when Benue was witnessing improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities.

He urged residents to reject attempts by criminal elements to incite violence and reprisals, stressing that no one should take the law into their own hands.

According to him, peace remains the foundation for sustainable development, investment, agricultural growth and job creation.

The SGF extended condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and others affected by the tragedy.

He also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, saying the Federal Government would continue to provide security and intelligence agencies with the support and resources needed to combat criminality.

Akume further appealed to the people of Benue State to remain calm and assist security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and strengthen peace and security in the state.