Sultan Condemns Killing of Benue Fulani Leader
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed profound grief over the killing of Ardo Risku, the Benue State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN). In a statement issued on Sunday, the Sultan described the deceased as “a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence.”
Call for Transparent Investigation
The statement, signed by the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, and made available to journalists in Abuja, conveyed the Sultan’s call for a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the killing. Mr. Abubakar, who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of MACBAN, urged the relevant authorities to ensure that every person found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
Commendation for Government and Security Agencies
While mourning the painful loss, the Sultan commended the prompt response of the Benue State Government and security agencies for the arrest of suspects in connection with the murder. He noted that the late Mr. Risku consistently championed reconciliation and constructive engagement in the pursuit of lasting peace in Benue.
Life Dedicated to Peace and Dialogue
The Sultan described the late Fulani leader as a respected community leader whose life was devoted to fostering peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding among pastoralists and farming communities. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the leadership and members of MACBAN nationwide, and the people and government of Benue over the loss of Mr. Risku. The traditional ruler noted that the deceased’s commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution earned him the respect of people across communities.
Appeal for Calm and Restraint
The Sultan appealed to all residents of Benue and the wider public to remain calm, shun reprisals, and allow the due process of the law to take its course. He emphasized that no grievance should be allowed to undermine public peace or ignite further violence. He stressed that justice could only be sustained when pursued through lawful institutions.
“The late Alhaji Ardo Risku dedicated his life to building bridges across communities. The most fitting tribute to his memory is for all of us to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect that he lived and worked for,” the Sultan stated.
Prayers for the Deceased
He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased and to bless the family, friends, and associates with the strength and patience to bear this irreparable loss.
