Gunmen Kill Benue Miyetti Allah Chairman Returning From Security Meeting

Unidentified gunmen have reportedly killed the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku Muhammad, in an ambush in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Muhammad and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were attacked on Friday afternoon near the Okudu community while returning from a peace and security meeting in neighbouring Ohimini LGA.

Sources disclosed that the meeting had been organised by the Divisional Police Officer in Idekpa, Ohimini.

The attackers were said to have ambushed the victims’ vehicle and opened fire, killing both men at the scene.

Confirming the incident, the deceased’s son, Idris Muhammad, said the bodies had been taken to Oyangede for burial.

“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,” he said.

The incident has sparked fresh tension in the area, with concerns over possible reprisals and worsening insecurity.

Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Maxwell Ogiri, acknowledged the tense atmosphere but urged residents to remain calm.

“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.

Ohimini LGA Chairman, Gabriel Adole, described the killing as unfortunate, noting that the peace meeting attended by the late MACBAN chairman had ended successfully before the attack.

The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the incident.

Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said investigations were ongoing to uncover those behind the killings and bring them to justice.

She appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions in the area.

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