The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has strongly condemned the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State Chapter, Ardo Risku Mohammed, describing the attack as a devastating blow to ongoing efforts to foster peace, dialogue and harmonious coexistence in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director-General of the Institute, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the IPCR said the late MACBAN leader was widely recognised as a tireless advocate of reconciliation and peaceful engagement among Benue’s diverse ethnic and religious communities. It noted that his death represents not only a personal tragedy but also a serious setback to the state’s fragile peacebuilding process.
The Institute observed that Mohammed had earned widespread respect for his commitment to dialogue and bridge-building at a time when Benue continues to grapple with recurring communal tensions and insecurity.
According to the IPCR, the murder of a prominent peace advocate sends a dangerous signal that could undermine confidence in dialogue as a pathway to resolving conflicts.
“The Institute believes that individuals who dedicate their lives to promoting peace and building bridges between communities should be protected and encouraged, not subjected to violence. The killing of such a prominent peace actor undermines collective efforts to achieve lasting stability,” the statement said.
While expressing outrage over the incident, the Institute commended security agencies for their swift response, particularly the reported arrest of about 10 suspects linked to the killing.
It said the prompt action by law enforcement authorities demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the crime are identified and made to face the full weight of the law.
The IPCR, however, stressed that arrests alone would not be sufficient. It urged investigating authorities to conduct a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation that leaves no stone unturned.
It maintained that everyone directly or indirectly connected to the murder must be brought to justice in accordance with the law, insisting that accountability remains essential to restoring public confidence and strengthening the foundations of lasting peace and security.
The Institute also appealed to community leaders, religious leaders, youth groups and civil society organisations to remain calm and resist any action that could escalate tensions or provoke retaliatory attacks.
Reaffirming its mandate as Nigeria’s leading government institution dedicated to peacebuilding and conflict resolution, the IPCR pledged to sustain its support for dialogue, mediation and confidence-building initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening social cohesion across the country.
The Institute extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, the leadership and members of MACBAN, the people of Benue State and all those affected by the loss, while urging Nigerians to honour Mohammed’s legacy by remaining committed to peace, justice and national unity.
