Gunmen Kill Benue MACBAN Chairman After Peace Meeting

Tension has risen in parts of Benue State following the killing of the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, shortly after attending a peace meeting in Ohinmini Local Government Area.

The victims were reportedly returning from the meeting, which had been convened by the Divisional Police Officer in Ohinmini to address recent security concerns and promote peaceful coexistence between herders and local communities. The gathering was said to have ended peacefully before the attack occurred.

According to reports, the two men were ambushed by unidentified gunmen at Okudu community in neighbouring Otukpo Local Government Area and shot dead. The incident has heightened fears of renewed violence in an area already affected by recurring security challenges.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the killings and said investigations had commenced to identify those responsible. Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet assured residents that security agencies were working to apprehend the perpetrators and urged members of the public to provide useful information that could assist the investigation.

Meanwhile, the national leadership of MACBAN condemned the attack, describing it as a disturbing act that undermines ongoing peacebuilding efforts. The association called for a thorough and transparent investigation, stressing that attacks on community leaders involved in dialogue threaten reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.