MACBAN Condemns Otukpo-Nobi Killings, Urges Calm, Says Attack Not Linked to Reprisal

From 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 (LGA), describing the incident as unfortunate and calling for a thorough investigation by security agencies.

In a statement signed by the State Secretary of the association, Ibrahim Gamla, MACBAN denounced the violence and cautioned against linking the attack to Fulani herders without credible evidence.

The association said it was important for the public to avoid drawing conclusions while investigations by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies were 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 further noted that Otukpo-Nobi and neighbouring communities such as Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada have a history of communal disputes.

“Otukpo-Nobi and other communities in the area already have unresolved communal clashes. The most recent of such conflicts reportedly resulted in the death of four persons and was widely reported in the media, including by the Daily Trust on May 14, 2024,” the statement said.

The association also 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 fatalities.

Consequently, MACBAN 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.

It warned that such assumptions could prejudice ongoing investigations and heighten tensions in affected communities.

The association also called on relevant authorities to monitor the activities of content creators and social media users disseminating unverified information about the incident.

According to MACBAN, discussions and narratives built around unconfirmed reports have the potential to inflame tensions and undermine efforts aimed at restoring peace.

The group appealed to its members and residents of the state to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies as investigations continue.

“We have full confidence in the security agencies to unravel the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice, regardless of who they may be,” the statement added.

MACBAN also expressed sympathy to 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 at large.