MACBAN rules out reprisal attack over killing of Benue chairman

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has ruled out any reprisal attack following the killing of its Benue State chairman, Ado Risku, in Otukpo Local Government Area.

The assurance came during a condolence visit by a Benue State government delegation to the late chairman’s family at their home in Onyagede, Ohimini Local Government Area.

The delegation was led by Deputy Governor Sam Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Alia. It also included the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 4, Dankombo Morris, representing the Inspector-General of Police, alongside heads of other security agencies, the Benue APC chairman, and national and state MACBAN officials.

Speaking during the visit, Ode described the killing of Risku and his brother as “unfortunate and unacceptable.”

He assured the family that those responsible would be brought to justice and appealed to residents not to allow the incident disrupt the peace in the state.

Representing the Inspector-General of Police, AIG Morris said security agencies had begun a joint investigation into the killings. He urged members of the public to provide useful information that could help identify those behind the attack.

Speaking on behalf of MACBAN, National Secretary-General Bello Gotomo described the late chairman as “a committed peace advocate” and said his death was a loss to both Benue State and Nigeria.

Gotomo also praised security agencies over the reported arrests and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Responding on behalf of the family, the deceased’s son, Mohammed Idris, thanked the Benue State government, security agencies and MACBAN leadership for standing by them during the difficult time.

He called for a thorough investigation into the killings and urged members of the community to remain peaceful.