Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, 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 disturbing and unacceptable.
Akume’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, and made available to journalists in Makurdi.
Reacting to the incident, the SGF said the murder was “reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust that communities across Benue State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.”
He expressed concern that the killings occurred at a period when Benue had begun recording significant progress in security and peaceful coexistence among its various ethnic, cultural and religious groups.
According to Akume, those bent on destabilising the state should not be allowed to destroy the gains achieved through dialogue, understanding and collective efforts.
Reflecting on his time as governor of Benue State, Akume recalled that he consistently advocated “peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents, irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences,” stressing that peace, tolerance and mutual respect remain essential for sustainable development and economic growth.
The SGF appealed to residents across the state to resist any attempt by criminal elements to incite violence, hatred or reprisals, warning that no one should resort to self-help or take the law into their own hands.
He maintained that enduring peace is crucial to attracting investment, boosting agriculture, creating employment opportunities
