Sultan calls for fair investigation into Miyetti Allah leader's murder

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has shown sadness over the killing of Ardo Risku, the Benue chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

In a statement released on Sunday, the Sultan called the late Risku “a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence.”

The statement, which was signed by Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, the National President of MACBAN, was shared with reporters in Abuja.

Mr Abubakar, who chairs the Board of Trustees of MACBAN, urged the government to carry out a fair, clear, and unbiased investigation into the killing. He said the authorities must ensure that anyone found guilty faces justice under the law.

While mourning this tragic loss, the Sultan praised the quick action of the Benue State Government and security agencies for arresting suspects linked to the murder. He noted that Mr Risku always pushed for reconciliation and positive discussions to achieve lasting peace in Benue.

He also described Mr Risku as a respected community leader who dedicated his life to peace, dialogue, and understanding between pastoralists and farming communities.

The Sultan sent his sincere condolences to the grieving family, the leadership and members of MACBAN across the nation, and the people and government of Benue for the loss of Mr Risku.

He pointed out that the late leader’s dedication to dialogue and resolving conflicts earned him respect in various communities. The Sultan urged all residents of Benue and the general public to stay calm, avoid retaliation, and let the law handle the situation.

He stressed that no problem should disrupt public peace or lead to more violence. He said justice can only be maintained when it is pursued through legal channels.

“The late Alhaji Ardo Risku dedicated his life to building bridges across communities. The best way to honor his memory is for us all to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect that he lived and worked for,” the Sultan said.

He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive any shortcomings of the deceased. The Sultan also prayed for Allah to grant the family of the deceased, friends, and associates the strength and patience to cope with this great loss.