No hiding place for killers of Benue herdsmen’ chairman, Akume declares

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has condemned the gruesome murder of Ardo Risku, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and his Associate, Yakubu Isa and demanded that all perpetrators be arrested and prosecuted.

This is even as the Benue State Police Command said that it had arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of the MACBAN Chairman.

Udeme Edet, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), who stated this in a statement said, the arrest was made due to intelligence and tactical operations carried out by the Command as ten suspects had so far been arrested in connection with the incident.

She said the suspects were arrested on the night of 27th June, 2026, during a coordinated operation by tactical teams in Otukpo area of the State. Those arrest include Titus Thyodenda, 25 years Utibe Sam, 20 years Owoicho Ameh, 18 years Sunday Useni, 21 years Sunday Ogbanje, 46 years Daniel Raphael, 23 yearsAdokole John, 24 years Samuel Ogazi, 32 years Agbo Daniel, 25 years and Onazi James, 30yrs

However, a press statement signed by Yomi Odunuga, SGF’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, on Sunday, quoted Akume as describing the act as “reprehensible, unacceptable and a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation and mutual trust the State have worked painstakingly to rebuild.”

The SGF noted with “grave concern” that the killing occurred at a time when Benue has witnessed “encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence.”

He warned that “enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding and collective sacrifice.”

The SGF, who served as Governor of Benue State, said he consistently preached unity among all residents irrespective of ethnic, cultural or religious differences.

He reiterated that “sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.”

Akume urged all communities in Benue to reject attempts by criminal elements “to sow seeds of discord, hatred and reprisals,” stressing that no individual or group should take the law into their hands. “Lasting peace remains the strongest foundation for attracting investment, expanding agriculture, creating jobs and guaranteeing a better future,” he said.

The SGF extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragic incident.

Akume called on the Nigeria Police Force, the DSS, and other security agencies to “immediately carry out a thorough, transparent and painstaking investigation.”  insisting that “no stone must be left unturned in identifying, arresting and prosecuting everyone connected with the heinous crime.”

He cited the Yelwata killings, which he said, demanded that the suspects be tracked down and brought to justice, and noted that those suspects have now been apprehended and are standing trial.

“The same resolve must be demonstrated in this case,” he said, adding that the killers of the MACBAN Chairman “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,” Akume stated.

He reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s “unwavering commitment to confronting insecurity in all its forms, saying, the President has continued to provide security and intelligence agencies with “the necessary support, resources and strategic direction to decisively tackle criminality.”

Akume urged Benue residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, and support efforts to strengthen peace and harmonious coexistence.