MACBAN Denies Link to Otukpo Killings, Urges Public to Await Police Investigation
By Zagazola Makama
The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has condemned the recent killings in Otukpo-Nobi, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, while urging the public to refrain from attributing the attack to Fulani herders pending the outcome of security investigations.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its State Secretary, Ibrahim Galma, the association described the July 12 attack as unfortunate and called for calm, warning against what it described as premature conclusions capable of escalating tensions.
MACBAN said it was important to note that Fulani residents in Otukpo and surrounding communities had been forcefully evicted from the area last year, including their community leader, Chairman Yenusa, who reportedly left the state after efforts to restore peace failed.
The association further argued that Otukpo-Nobi and neighbouring communities, including Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada, had existing communal disputes predating the latest violence.
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According to the group, one of the previous communal clashes in the area resulted in the killing of four persons, an incident it said was widely reported in May 2024.
MACBAN also questioned reports alleging that two persons were killed in Akpachi village, Ugboju, stating that there was no verified evidence at the moment confirming the attack or the reported casualties.
The association cautioned against linking the latest incident to an alleged reprisal over the killing of a Fulani leader, Ardo Risku, in Okudu near Ohimini, stressing that such claims remained speculative and could undermine ongoing investigations by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.
It also urged authorities to monitor individuals and content creators circulating unverified narratives on social media, warning that such discussions could inflame tensions and frustrate peace efforts.
MACBAN called on its members and residents of the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding while investigations continue, expressing confidence that security agencies would identify and prosecute those responsible for the attack.
The association also extended condolences to the families of those killed and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, while calling for lasting peace in Otukpo and Benue State.