By Joy Yesufu
The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were on Friday killed by suspected gunmen in an ambush along the Okwudu axis of Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were reportedly returning from a peace meeting involving herders and members of host communities in neighbouring Ohimini Local Government Area when they came under attack.
Muhammad’s eldest son, Muhammad Idris, confirmed the incident saying his father and Isah were ambushed at about 2:00 p.m. shortly after leaving the meeting.
According to Idris, the meeting was convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ohimini Local Government Area to address concerns raised by residents over the activities of herders in the area.
He alleged that armed assailants intercepted the victims along the Okwudu route and killed them on the spot.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Gabriel Adole, said the peace meeting between herders and members of the host communities was successful and ended on a cordial note before the victims departed.
He said it was unfortunate that Muhammad and his associate were attacked and killed after leaving the meeting.
Also confirming the incident, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, said the attack occurred within his council area, adding that the incident had heightened tension among residents.
Ogiri appealed for calm, assuring members of the public that security agencies were working to maintain peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the killings.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the command was aware of the incident and had commenced investigations to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
The latest attack comes amid renewed efforts by security agencies, community leaders and stakeholders to ease tensions between farmers and herders in parts of Benue State, which has witnessed recurring violent clashes in recent years.
