The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Ardo Risku Muhammad, has reportedly been killed alongside his associate, Yakubu Isah, after gunmen ambushed them in Otukpo Local Government Area.
The attack occurred at about 2 p.m. on Friday near the Okudu community as the two men were returning from a peace and security meeting held in neighbouring Ohimini Local Government Area.
Sources disclosed that the meeting was allegedly convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Idekpa, Ohimini, and focused on security and peaceful coexistence in the area.
According to reports, the victims were travelling home when armed youths intercepted their vehicle and opened fire, killing both men at the scene.
The deceased’s eldest son, Idris Muhammad, confirmed the incident, saying his father and Isah were attacked shortly after leaving the peace meeting.
“They killed my father, the Ardo, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, after around 2pm while on their way from the peace meeting called by the DPO in Ohimini. We have recovered their bodies and took them to Oyangede for burial,” Idris said.
The killings have sparked fresh concerns among residents, with many fearing possible reprisals and a further deterioration of security in the area.
Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, also confirmed the incident, describing the situation around the community as tense.
He appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring them that security agencies had taken control of the situation to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
“The area the incident happened is tense right now, but I appeal for calm because the police are on top of the situation,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Gabriel Adole, said the late MACBAN chairman had attended what he described as a successful peace meeting before he was attacked while travelling through Otukpo.
Adole described the killings as unfortunate, adding that security agencies had been notified and were expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, who disclosed that an investigation had already commenced.
Edet assured residents that efforts were underway to identify those behind the attack and ensure they face justice. She also urged members of the public to remain peaceful and cooperate with investigators as inquiries continue.