The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Sunday, expressed profound shock, sadness and outrage over the gruesome killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate.
This was contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, and made available to journalists in Makurdi on Sunday.
According to the statement, Akume described 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 noted with grave concern that the incident occurred at a time when the state had continued to witness encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural and religious communities. He warned that enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.
Akume said that throughout his tenure as Governor of Benue State, he 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.
He therefore urged all communities in Benue 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 own 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.
