The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed profound grief over the killing of Ardo Risku, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by MACBAN National President, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, the Sultan, who is Chairman of MACBAN’s Board of Trustees, described the deceased as “a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence.”
He urged relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the killing and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice.
While mourning the loss, the Sultan commended the Benue State Government and security agencies for the prompt arrest of suspects linked to the murder.
He noted that the late Risku consistently championed reconciliation and constructive engagement in pursuit of lasting peace in Benue State. The Sultan described him as a respected community leader who devoted his life to fostering peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding between pastoralists and farming communities.
The traditional ruler extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, MACBAN members nationwide, and the people and Government of Benue State.
He appealed to all residents of Benue and the general public to remain calm, shun reprisals, and allow the due process of the law to take its course.
“No grievance should be allowed to undermine public peace or ignite further violence,” the Sultan said. “The most fitting tribute to his memory is for all of us to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect that he lived and worked for.”
He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and give the family, friends, and associates the strength and patience to bear the irreparable loss.
