Police arrest four chiefs, others over MACBAN chairman’s death in Benue

Police in Benue State, Nigeria, have arrested seven more suspects, including four traditional chiefs and an 80-year-old man, for the killing of Ardo Risku Mohammad, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, and Yakubu Isa.

“

Following sustained intelligence gathering, painstaking investigation and continuous tactical operations, an additional seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the case. The arrests were made during intelligence-led operations by operatives of the Command in continuation of the investigation.

Mohammad and Isa were ambushed and killed on June 26, 2026, near Okudu community as they returned from a peace meeting in the neighboring Ohimini LGA. The Benue State Police Command announced the arrests, stating they followed "sustained intelligence gathering, painstaking investigation and continuous tactical operations."

The newly arrested suspects were identified as Chief Morgan Ejaga, 43; Chief Moses Anteyi, 45; Chief John Ogli, 58; Chief Yawuhu Adaji, 49; Sylvester Ajonye, 80; Aba Alexander Uloko, 59; and Fidelis Iduma, 45.

“

Every person found to have participated directly or indirectly in the commission of the crime will be identified, apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu praised the investigating teams for their commitment and professionalism. He assured residents that the investigation remains active and that everyone found to have participated in the killings, directly or indirectly, will be prosecuted. Nwadiogbu urged the public to remain calm and continue supporting the police with credible information, emphasizing the command's commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining peace in the state.

“

The Benue State Police Command remained committed to ensuring justice for the victims and maintaining peace, law and order across the state.