By Paul Joseph
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation into the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, the Sultan expressed profound grief over the incident, describing the late Risku as a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence and reconciliation.
He urged the relevant authorities to ensure that all those responsible for the killing are identified, prosecuted and brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The Sultan also commended the Benue State Government and security agencies for their swift response to the incident, particularly the arrest of suspects linked to the murder.
According to him, Risku dedicated his life to fostering peace, dialogue and mutual understanding between herders and farming communities in Benue State, earning widespread respect across ethnic and community lines.
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 bereaved family, members of MACBAN across the country, and the government and people of Benue State over the loss.
He appealed to residents to remain calm, refrain from reprisals and allow the legal process to take its course, stressing that justice can only be achieved through lawful institutions.
The Sultan added that the most fitting tribute to the late Risku would be to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue and mutual respect, principles he devoted his life to promoting.
Leave a Reply