The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation into the killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman, Alhaji Ardo Risku, urging security agencies to ensure that all those responsible are identified, prosecuted and brought to justice.
Key Highlights:
- Sultan of Sokoto demands a thorough probe into the killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman.
- Calls for a transparent and impartial investigation into the murder of Alhaji Ardo Risku.
- Commends Benue State Government and security agencies for the swift arrest of suspects.
- Appeals to residents to remain calm and avoid reprisals.
- Describes the late MACBAN chairman as a champion of peaceful coexistence and dialogue.
The Sultan’s position was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the National President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Baba Othman-Ngelzarma.
The revered traditional ruler expressed profound grief over the death of Alhaji Ardo Risku, describing him as a courageous advocate of peace, reconciliation and harmonious coexistence between herders and farming communities in Benue State.
According to the statement, the Sultan urged the relevant authorities to carry out a credible investigation and ensure that every individual connected with the killing faces the full weight of the law.
He also commended the Benue State Government and security agencies for their prompt response to the incident, particularly the arrest of suspects linked to the murder.
The Sultan noted that the late Risku devoted his life to promoting dialogue, peace and mutual understanding among diverse communities in Benue State, earning the respect of people across ethnic and religious divides.
He described the deceased as a respected community leader whose commitment to reconciliation made him a symbol of hope for peaceful coexistence in the state.
The Sultan extended his condolences to the family of the late Risku, members of MACBAN nationwide, and the government and people of Benue State over the tragic loss.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm, avoid acts of retaliation and allow the legal process to take its course, stressing that lasting justice can only be achieved through lawful institutions.
According to the Sultan, the most appropriate way to honour the memory of the late MACBAN chairman is to uphold the ideals he lived for, including peace, dialogue, restraint and mutual respect.
“The greatest tribute to the late Ardo Risku is to preserve the values of peaceful coexistence, dialogue and justice that he consistently promoted throughout his lifetime.”
