The Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku Muhammad, has been killed alongside his associate, Yakubu Isah, after gunmen ambushed their vehicle in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were reportedly attacked on Friday while returning from a peace meeting held in neighbouring Ohinmini Local Government Area.
The meeting, convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), brought together Fulani herders, community leaders and other stakeholders to discuss measures aimed at restoring peace following recent violence in Ayunne community.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants intercepted the victims’ vehicle at Okudu community in Otukpo LGA and opened fire, killing Muhammad and Isah before fleeing the scene.
The killing has heightened tension across Otukpo and neighbouring communities, with residents expressing fears of renewed violence despite ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation.
Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incident and appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring that security agencies had taken charge of the situation.
Similarly, Chairman of Ohinmini Local Government Area, Adole Gabriel, described the attack as a major setback to peace efforts, noting that the meeting had ended successfully before the victims were ambushed on their way home.
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the incident. Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the command had commenced investigations to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.
Meanwhile, the national leadership of MACBAN condemned the killing, describing it as a dastardly act capable of undermining ongoing peace-building efforts.
The association called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
