‘You won’t escape’: Gov Alia vows justice over killing of Benue MACBAN chairman

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Alhaji Ardo Risku, declaring that those behind the attack would not escape justice.

The governor, in a statement issued on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, described the killing as a heinous act and directed security agencies to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Alia said the murder came at a particularly sensitive period when Benue State was witnessing a significant return to peace and stability across several local government areas.

He described the incident as not only a tragedy but also a calculated attempt to undermine the peace and reconciliation efforts of his administration.

“It is deeply regrettable that this unfortunate incident occurred shortly after a security meeting,” the governor said.

According to him, the killing of a community leader and peace advocate represents a major setback to the ongoing dialogue among stakeholders working to restore lasting peace in the state.

The governor directed security agencies to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted.

He also ordered enhanced security measures to protect community leaders actively involved in peace-building and security initiatives across the state.

Alia warned the perpetrators that they would not evade justice, insisting that no stone should be left unturned in tracking them down.

While expressing regret over the incident, the governor appealed to members of MACBAN and the general public to remain calm and law-abiding.

“We must not allow those who profit from chaos to succeed in inciting further violence or disrupting the peace we have taken time to build,” he said.

The governor extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku and the entire MACBAN community, assuring them that his administration remained committed to ensuring justice.

“Our administration remains resolute: Benue is a home for peace, and we will not allow the shadows of the past to eclipse the bright future we are currently building,” he added.

IDOMA VOICE reports that the MACBAN chairman was reportedly killed alongside a companion by unidentified gunmen after attending a security meeting in Otukpo. 

Police have since launched an investigation into the attack and deployed tactical teams to apprehend the perpetrators.