Benue killing: MACBAN seeks thorough investigation, distances members

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State Chapter, has strongly condemned the attack and killing of innocent people in Otukpo Nobi, Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.

The association also distanced its members from the attack, which reportedly claimed the lives of 16 people.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the state secretary of the association, Ibrahim Galma, and made available to journalists in Makurdi.

MACBAN urged the public to avoid hasty conclusions and refrain from linking the incident to Fulani herders without proper investigation by security agencies.

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Galma stated that there had been no Fulani residents in Otukpo and its environs since last year. He also alleged that Otukpo Nobi and other neighbouring communities had existing communal disputes.

According to the statement, “It is important for the public to note that all Fulani residents in Otukpo and its environs were forcefully evicted from the area sometime last year.

“This included their community leader in Otukpo, Chairman Yenusa, who left the state immediately after all efforts to restore peace in Otukpo failed following that incident.

“Secondly, it has come to our notice that Otukpo Nobi and other communities in the same area, such as Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada, already have pending communal clashes.”

The association also called on the public to refrain from linking the incident to a reprisal attack over the killing of its chairman, Ardo Risku, a few days ago.

“Making such conclusions at this stage will only compromise the ongoing investigation being carried out by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies,” the statement said in part.

While calling on its members and the public to remain calm and law-abiding as security agencies investigate the incident, the MACBAN state scribe also urged the authorities to monitor discussions on social media, saying such comments could incite tension and undermine ongoing peace efforts.

The association prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and for the restoration of peace in Otukpo and Benue State.

It will be recalled that 16 people were killed in a coordinated attack in the early hours of Sunday in Otukpo Nobi. Residents of the community alleged that the attack was carried out by armed herders.

Angered by the incident, youths and women stormed the Och’Idoma’s palace in protest, carrying the bodies of the victims.