Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the killing of the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his friend, describing the attack as a tragic attempt to undermine the growing peace and stability in the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday, June 27, 2026, the governor said the incident occurred at a critical period when Benue was beginning to record significant improvements in security across several local government areas.

According to him, the victims were attacked shortly after attending a security meeting, describing the incident as a direct assault on ongoing peace-building efforts and the state’s commitment to restoring lasting security.

Governor Alia said the killing of a respected community leader and peace advocate was a setback to dialogue, reconciliation and the collaborative efforts of stakeholders working to end violence in the state.

He directed security agencies to immediately launch a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, arrest them and ensure they are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The governor also ordered the strengthening of security measures to safeguard community leaders and other individuals actively involved in peace and security initiatives across the state.

While urging members of MACBAN and residents of the state to remain calm and law-abiding, Alia warned against reprisals or actions capable of escalating tensions and undermining the progress made in restoring peace.

He extended his condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership of MACBAN and the wider Fulani community, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that those behind the killings are brought to justice.