Sultan Averts Reprisals After MACBAN Chairman's Killing

Sultan Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar intervened to avert potential reprisals after the killing of Alhaji Risku Muhammad, the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State on June 26, 2026. Following the incident, which sparked ethnic tensions, the Sultan gathered MACBAN leaders and members from neighboring states to resist the temptation for revenge.

He insisted on a comprehensive investigation into the murder and called for the identification and punishment of those responsible according to the law. Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia also reached out to the Sultan, who is the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), to seek his intervention.

The Sultan's efforts included a condolence visit to the slain chairman's family and a push for police action to arrest those linked to the murder. He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering interfaith relations and promoting peace in Nigeria during a meeting with Vatican officials.