MACBAN Condemns Otukpo Killings, Rejects Reprisal Claims

By Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State Chapter, has condemned the killing of several persons in Otukpo-Nobi, Otukpo Local Government Area, describing the incident as unfortunate and calling on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.

In a statement signed by the association’s State Secretary, Ibrahim Gamla, MACBAN denounced the violence and cautioned against linking the attack to Fulani herders without credible evidence. The association urged the public to avoid making conclusions while investigations by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies are still ongoing.
According to the statement, all Fulani residents in Otukpo and surrounding communities were allegedly evicted from the area last year, including their community leader in Otukpo, Chairman Yenusa, who reportedly left the state after efforts to restore peace failed. MACBAN also noted that Otukpo-Nobi and neighbouring communities, including Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada, have a history of communal disputes.
The association stated that the affected communities have experienced unresolved communal clashes over the years. It recalled that one of the recent conflicts reportedly claimed four lives and was widely reported by the media, including the Daily Trust on May 14, 2024.
MACBAN further referred to reports of two persons allegedly killed in Akpachi village in Ugboju but maintained that there was no verified evidence confirming either the attack or the reported deaths. Consequently, it urged members of the public not to describe the Otukpo-Nobi killings as a reprisal attack linked to the reported killing of Ardo Risku in Okudu, near Ohimini.
The association warned that such assumptions could compromise ongoing investigations and further heighten tensions in the affected communities. It also called on relevant authorities to monitor the activities of content creators and social media users spreading unverified information about the incident.
According to MACBAN, narratives built around unconfirmed reports have the potential to inflame tensions and undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace. The group appealed to its members and residents of Benue State to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies as investigations continue.
MACBAN expressed confidence that security agencies would uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to justice, regardless of their identity. The association also sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and called for lasting peace in Otukpo and Benue State.