Akume Condemns Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman, Demands Thorough Investigation

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has condemned the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Risku Mohammed, describing the attack as shocking and unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume said he was "profoundly shocked, saddened and outraged" by the killing of the MACBAN chairman and his associate, Yakubu Isa.

The victims were reportedly attacked by unknown gunmen while returning from a security meeting along the Okwudu-Ogoli Road in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Akume said the killings came at a time when Benue was beginning to witness improvements in security and gradual efforts to restore peaceful coexistence among communities.

He urged residents not to allow criminal elements to exploit the incident by provoking reprisals, stressing that peace remains critical to the state's development and economic progress.

The SGF called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation, identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.

Recalling the recent attack on Yelwata community, Akume noted that suspects arrested in connection with that incident are already facing trial, adding that those responsible for the latest killings must equally be prosecuted.

"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," he said.

Akume also reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu's commitment to addressing insecurity across the country and appealed to residents of Benue State to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as investigations continue.

The SGF's statement comes a day after the Benue State Police Command announced it had launched a full-scale investigation into the killing of the MACBAN chairman and his associate, with tactical and intelligence teams deployed to track down the attackers.