Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has expressed shock and sadness over the killing of the state’s Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate.
According to Daily Post on Saturday, June 27, 2026, the governor described the incident as a major setback to ongoing efforts to improve security and promote peaceful coexistence across Benue State.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Alia extended his condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
“It is deeply regrettable that this unfortunate incident occurred shortly after a security meeting,” the governor said.
Alia noted that the killings came at a time when the state was experiencing what the government described as a gradual return to peace and stability through sustained dialogue, security operations and conflict-resolution initiatives.
He said the government would continue working closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to preserve recent security gains, investigate the attack and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The governor also urged residents to remain calm and provide useful information to assist ongoing investigations.
