Police Launch investigation, Manhunt for killers of MACBAN Chairman, associate killed in Benue

From Dooshima Terkura Makurdi

The Benue State Police Command has condemned the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State chapter, Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isa, describing the incident as a criminal act capable of undermining ongoing peace and security efforts in the state.

The victims were attacked and killed in an ambush on Friday afternoon by unidentified assailants while returning from a security meeting along the Okwudu-Ogoli Road in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Sources said the victims were returning from a security meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ohimini LGA when they were attacked and killed.

Credible information gathered by our correspondent said the meeting, which took place in Ohimini LGA, was peaceful and fruitful. However, tragedy struck shortly after the MACBAN chairman and his associate left the venue and were travelling back.

The Chairman of Ohimini LGA, Gabriel Adole confirmed the incident, expressing worry over the development, while his Otukpo counterpart, Maxwell Ogiri, said the area had become tense following the killings.

“The area where the incident happened is tense right now, but we appeal for calm. The police are on top of the situation,” Ogiri said.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Udeme Edet on Saturday, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, said the command has launched investigation into killing of MACBAN Chairman, and his Associate with a view to bringing perpetrators to book.

He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and others affected by the tragic loss and assured residents that the command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the killings.

According to him, tactical and intelligence teams have been deployed to track down those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.

He said “The command will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”

CP Nwadiogbu urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding, warning against the spread of unverified information or any action that could escalate tensions within communities.

He also appealed to individuals with useful information that could aid the investigation to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its emergency lines.

The Benue State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, assuring residents that it will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to maintain peace and security while ensuring those behind the attack face the full weight of the law.