MACBAN raises alarm over rising killings, cattle rustling in Benue South

The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has voiced serious concern over the increasing wave of killings, attacks and cattle rustling across Benue South Senatorial District, warning that the insecurity has evolved beyond the long-standing farmer-herder crisis into organised criminal activity.

In a statement released on Wednesday by the association’s Secretary, Ibrahim Galma, MACBAN condemned the persistent violence and called on the Benue State Government, security agencies and traditional rulers to urgently intervene to end the bloodshed and restore peace across the affected communities.

According to Galma, “We wish to state categorically that the situation in Zone C has transcended a farmer-herder conflict.

What we are witnessing is pure criminality orchestrated by criminal elements who are exploiting the fragile security situation to perpetrate murder, theft, arson and forceful displacement of innocent citizens.”

The association recalled the killing of its Benue State Chairman, Ardo Risku Muhammad, alongside his associate, Yakubu Isah, by suspected gunmen at Okudu village in Otukpo Local Government Area on June 26, 2026. It described the attack as a tragic incident that further heightened fear and insecurity across the district.

MACBAN also cited later attacks in Otukpo-Nobi, Ogobia and Efeyi communities, where several residents reportedly lost their lives, expressing sympathy to all bereaved families regardless of ethnicity or affiliation.

The association further alleged that between July 21 and July 28, Fulani herders and their livestock came under attack in Olahimu, Ipom, Ochimosho, Omoloye, Ofiloko, Ibagidi and Ugene communities. It claimed the incidents led to fatalities, cattle theft and the displacement of many herders.

According to the group, several Fulani settlements in parts of Otukpo Local Government Area were also razed in suspected arson attacks.

MACBAN urged security agencies to carry out thorough investigations into the incidents and ensure that anyone found responsible faces prosecution in line with the law.

To address the worsening security situation, the association recommended the establishment of a joint peace and security committee involving representatives of the Idoma, Igede, Agatu and Fulani communities.

It also called for increased security presence in affected areas, the convening of an emergency peace summit involving key stakeholders, and diligent investigation and prosecution of all perpetrators.

Reiterating its commitment to peaceful coexistence, the association appealed to Fulani communities across Benue State to remain peaceful and seek lawful means of addressing grievances.

“The Government must act now to restore normalcy before the situation degenerates beyond control,” Galma said.