The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed sadness over the killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), describing him as a committed advocate of peace and unity.
In a statement issued through the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, the Sultan called on the relevant authorities to carry out a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
He urged the government to ensure that everyone found responsible for the incident is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The Sultan also commended the Benue State Government and security agencies for their swift response, particularly the arrest of suspects linked to the murder.
According to him, the late Ardo Risku dedicated his life to promoting peaceful coexistence, dialogue and reconciliation between pastoralists and farming communities in Benue State.
He described the deceased as a respected community leader whose commitment to conflict resolution and mutual understanding earned him admiration across different communities.
The Sultan extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, members and leadership of MACBAN nationwide, as well as the government and people of Benue State.
He appealed to residents of Benue and Nigerians at large to remain calm, avoid acts of retaliation and allow the legal process to take its course.
The traditional ruler stressed that lasting justice can only be achieved through lawful institutions and warned against allowing the incident to trigger further violence.
He added that the best way to honour the memory of Ardo Risku is by embracing the values of peace, dialogue, patience and mutual respect, which he consistently promoted throughout his lifetime.
The Sultan also prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings and grant his family the strength to bear the loss.
