Outrage after brutal murder of Kano indigenes in Benue

The shocking killing of Barhama Suleiman and Jamilu Ahmad, two indigenes of Kano State and sons of the respected Islamic scholar Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, in Makurdi, Benue State, has ignited national outrage.

Both the Kano and Benue State governments have swiftly condemned the brutal attack, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The young men were reportedly murdered late Monday night by unidentified assailants.

Authorities have indicated the victims were targeted without provocation while residing peacefully in the area, a detail that has further fueled public anger.

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in a statement released by his spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, denounced the act as “barbaric, senseless, and unacceptable,” expressing profound grief over the tragic loss.

“They were innocent, peace-loving citizens whose only crime was exercising their constitutional right to live and work in any part of Nigeria,” Governor Yusuf stated.

He condemned the killings as “an affront to the nation’s unity and peace,” pledging his government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the perpetrators face justice.

Governor Yusuf also appealed for calm and restraint, urging Kano citizens to avoid any form of retaliation as investigations continue.

He assured the public of close cooperation with Benue authorities and federal security agencies to ensure accountability.

Funeral prayers for Barhama Suleiman and Jamilu Ahmad were held at the National Mosque in Abuja on Tuesday.

A delegation from Kano, led by Governor Yusuf and including family members of the victims, attended the solemn ceremony.

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The loss has drawn widespread sympathy across the country, particularly given the victims’ familial connection to Sheikh Khalil, a prominent religious figure.

“This is not just a personal tragedy — it is a loss for Kano and the entire nation,” Yusuf lamented.

Reaffirming the fundamental right of every Nigerian to live and work freely in any part of the country, he added, “Nigeria belongs to all of us. Every citizen has the right to live, move, and thrive anywhere without fear of discrimination or violence.”

The Kano State Government has emphasized its unwavering commitment to the safety of its indigenes and has pledged to uncover the motive behind the attack, ensuring that justice ultimately prevails.