By Our Correspondent
Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian authorities to immediately launch a transparent and thorough investigation into the killing of the Chairman of the Pastoralists Association in Benue State, Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate, describing the incident as a shocking attack that must not go unpunished.
In a statement, the human rights organisation condemned the killings, noting that it was deeply disturbing that a meeting convened to promote peace and security allegedly ended in the brutal murder of one of its participants.
According to Amnesty International's findings, Alhaji Ardo Risku was invited by the Ohimini Local Government authorities on Friday, June 26, 2026, to attend a security meeting aimed at addressing issues relating to peace and security in the area.
The organisation stated that about an hour after the meeting ended, Risku and his friend were reportedly attacked while returning home. The assailants allegedly intercepted them at Okudu village, where they were shot multiple times before being killed.
Amnesty International said images of the victims' bodies obtained by the organisation were "beyond horrifying," describing the attack as a grave violation of human rights.
The organisation further revealed that the incident occurred barely a week after one of the deceased's sons was reportedly attacked and left with life-threatening injuries.
Amnesty International warned that failure to investigate the killings would further entrench the prevailing culture of impunity and undermine public confidence in the justice system.
The organisation urged the Nigerian authorities to conduct a prompt, independent and effective investigation, identify and prosecute those responsible, and ensure that justice is served.
It also called on the authorities to guarantee access to justice and effective remedies for the victims' families, stressing that the matter must not be swept under the carpet.
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