The Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District and Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, on Sunday, condemned the killing of the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Ardo Risku Muhammad, describing the attack as “barbaric and unacceptable.”
Muhammad was reportedly killed alongside his associate, Yakubu Isah, after they were ambushed by armed men while returning from a peace meeting in the state on Saturday.
Moro, in a statement issued by his media adviser, said, “This gruesome killing is barbaric and totally unacceptable. All lives matter, and nobody has the moral and constitutional right to take the life of an innocent and unarmed person.”
The lawmaker called on security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the incident, insisting that the perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice.
“We urge security agents to carry out a diligent and thorough investigation with a view to apprehending the real perpetrators of this heinous crime,” he said.
Moro also took a swipe at the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, stating that proactive governance could have prevented the killings.
“It is gratifying that the governor has condemned the killing. However, if the state government had been proactive in living up to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property, this avoidable tragedy could have been averted,” Moro said.
The Senate Minority Leader extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and urged residents to work collectively to address the worsening security situation in the state.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased. I call on all stakeholders to join hands in nipping this ugly security situation in the bud,” he added.