Five arrested over murder of two Kano indigenes in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has arrested five suspects in connection with the gruesome killing of two Kano State indigenes, Jamilu Ahmad and Barhama Suleiman, in Makurdi.

The victims were reportedly attacked around midnight on Monday while transiting through the Agan settlement near the Makurdi tollgate.

Their brutal murder has sparked outrage and renewed concerns over rising inter-communal violence in the North-Central region.

The Islamic funeral prayer (Janazah) for the deceased was held Tuesday at the National Mosque in Abuja, attended by prominent figures including the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf. The bodies were laid to rest at the Gudu Cemetery, with both dignitaries personally escorting the remains.

Speaking after the burial, Governor Yusuf condemned the killings as “unfortunate, cruel, and unjustifiable,” urging the Benue State Government and security agencies to ensure swift justice.

“This is a tragic loss for Kano and for Nigeria. The killers must be brought to justice without delay,” he said.

Yusuf also seized the moment to call on the Edo State Government to hasten compensation for families affected by the recent Uromi attack, urging justice and fairness in dealing with inter-communal violence across the country.

In response, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State denounced the killings as “barbaric and unacceptable.”

In a statement by his spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, Alia confirmed the arrest of five suspects and promised that all responsible would face the full weight of the law.

“Benue people are known for peace and hospitality. We will not allow a few criminals to destroy our image. Justice will be served,” Alia assured.

He also extended condolences to the Kano State Government and said he had spoken directly with Governor Yusuf, appealing for calm among residents of both states.

Muhammad Ibrahim Khalil, a cousin of one of the victims, described the tragedy as heartbreaking, lamenting that such acts still occur despite the presence of law enforcement.

“It’s painful, but we pray Allah grants them eternal rest,” he said.

The attack occurred amid heightened fears over communal violence in the region. Just days earlier, 13 wedding guests from Kaduna were killed in Mangu, Plateau State, after losing their way to a ceremony.

Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has urged residents to remain calm and avoid any form of retaliation.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and rights of all Kano indigenes, regardless of where they reside.

“Every Nigerian has the right to live and work anywhere in the country without fear. We must not allow these senseless killings to divide us,” he said.