Amanze Chinonye
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the killing of the state Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Rabo Mohammed, describing the attack as a calculated attempt to undermine the fragile peace and reconciliation efforts underway in the state, Prime Business Africa reports.
The governor’s reaction comes as security agencies intensify investigations into the killing, which has heightened concerns over renewed violence in Benue despite recent gains in security.
Join our WhatsApp Channel
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Alia said he was deeply saddened by the killing of the MACBAN chairman and Yakubu Isa, who were reportedly attacked by unknown gunmen while returning from a security meeting along the Okwudu-Ogoli Road in Otukpo Local Government Area.
READ ALSO :
Benue Police Armory Fire: Cause Still Unknown Days After Incident
According to the governor, the incident occurred at a particularly sensitive period when his administration was recording significant progress in restoring peace and stability across several local government areas.
He described the killings as not only a tragedy for the state but also “a direct attempt to undermine the hard-earned peace and the atmosphere of reconciliation that this administration has worked tirelessly to foster.”
“It is deeply regrettable that this unfortunate incident occurred shortly after a security meeting,” Alia said.
He noted that the killing of a community leader actively involved in peace-building efforts was a setback to the ongoing dialogue among stakeholders working to improve security across Benue.
The governor directed all relevant security agencies to immediately launch a thorough and transparent investigation into the killings, ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted without delay, and strengthen security around community leaders engaged in peace and security initiatives.
He also urged members of MACBAN and residents of the state to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.
“We must not allow those who profit from chaos to succeed in inciting further violence or disrupting the peace we have taken time to build,” the governor said.
Alia extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire MACBAN community, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace across the state.
“Our administration remains resolute: Benue is a home for peace, and we will not allow the shadows of the past to eclipse the bright future we are currently building,” he added.
READ MORE :
Rights Group Condemns Killings in Plateau, Benue, Demands Urgent Government Action
The governor’s directive follows Friday’s confirmation by the Benue State Police Command that Ardo Rabo Mohammed and Yakubu Isa were killed by unidentified assailants while returning from a security meeting.
In a statement, the Commissioner of Police, Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, described the attack as a senseless criminal act capable of undermining ongoing peace and security efforts in the state.
The police said tactical and intelligence teams had been deployed to investigate the incident, identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice, while appealing to residents to remain calm and provide credible information that could aid the investigation.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
