Police Launch Full Investigation into Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman, Associate
The Benue State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Alhaji Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isa, who were shot dead by unidentified gunmen.The victims were reportedly attacked on Friday while returning from a peace and security meeting held in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state. The meeting was convened to discuss measures aimed at improving security and promoting peaceful coexistence among communities in the area.
According to reports, the deceased were travelling through the Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area when armed assailants ambushed their vehicle and opened fire. Both men died at the scene, while the attackers fled before security operatives arrived.
Confirming the incident, the Benue State Police Command said it has launched a comprehensive investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible. The command assured residents that detectives have already commenced intelligence gathering and other investigative procedures to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.The killing has heightened tension in parts of Benue State, with residents expressing fears that the incident could undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace in the affected communities. Community leaders have appealed for calm and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands while investigations continue.
Family members of the deceased described the attack as heartbreaking, noting that Alhaji Risku Mohammed had attended the peace meeting with the hope of contributing to efforts aimed at improving security in the area. They said the victims’ bodies were later recovered and buried according to Islamic rites.
Officials of both Ohimini and Otukpo Local Government Areas condemned the killings, describing the attack as a major setback to ongoing peace-building initiatives. They reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with security agencies and community stakeholders to strengthen security and prevent further violence.
The police have appealed to members of the public with useful information about the attack to come forward, assuring them that all information provided will be treated with confidentiality. Authorities believe public cooperation will play a crucial role in tracking down those behind the killings.
Security has since been reinforced in the affected communities to maintain law and order and reassure residents. Patrols have also been intensified in strategic locations as part of efforts to prevent any possible reprisal attacks or further breakdown of peace.The incident adds to growing security concerns in parts of Benue State, where authorities have continued to battle communal clashes and criminal attacks. As investigations progress, residents are hoping that those responsible for the killings will be brought to justice and that renewed efforts to promote lasting peace in the state will yield positive results.
