Benue: Miyetti Allah chair killed in ambush after peace meeting

Ardo Risku Muhammad, the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, was reportedly killed in an ambush by unidentified gunmen. The incident took place on Friday afternoon in the Otukpo Local Government Area as Muhammad and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were traveling back from a security meeting in the neighboring Ohimini Local Government Area.

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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.

Sources indicate that the victims had attended a peace and security meeting, allegedly convened by the Divisional Police Officer in Idekpa, Ohimini LGA. Shortly after departing the meeting, their vehicle was ambushed, and both men were fatally shot. Idris Muhammad, the deceased's eldest son, confirmed the attack, stating that his father and Isah were killed around 2 p.m. while en route from the meeting. He added that the bodies had been recovered and taken for burial.

The killings have heightened tensions in the region, sparking fears of potential repris common reprisals and a further breakdown of security. Maxwell Ogiri, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, confirmed the incident and described the security situation as tense. He appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring them that the police and other security agencies are actively managing the situation to prevent any disorder.

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The area the incident happened is tense right now, but I appeal for calm because the police are on top of the situation.

Gabriel Adole, the chairman of Ohimini LGA, also confirmed Muhammad's participation in a successful peace meeting prior to the attack. He deemed the development unfortunate and noted that security agencies have been informed and are expected to investigate the circumstances. The Benue State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend those responsible. The public has been urged to cooperate with investigators and maintain peace.

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The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, who said an investigation had commenced.