MACBAN Breaks Silence, Denies Link to Deadly Otukpo Attack
The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has denied allegations linking its members to the deadly attack on Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed about 16 lives. The association has called for calm, urging the public not to jump to conclusions before security agencies complete their investigations.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, triggered widespread outrage as grieving youths and women reportedly carried the bodies of the victims to the palace of the Och’Idoma in protest. The tragic incident has once again brought renewed attention to the security situation in parts of Benue State.
In a statement issued by the association’s Secretary, Ibrahim Galma, MACBAN condemned the killings and insisted that Fulani herders should not be blamed without credible evidence. According to the association, Fulani residents had already been driven out of Otukpo and surrounding communities since last year, including their local leader, Chairman Yenusa, who reportedly left the area after peace efforts failed.
MACBAN further argued that Otukpo-Nobi and neighboring communities, including Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada, have long-standing communal disputes, urging investigators to examine every possible angle rather than focusing on a single narrative. The association also dismissed claims that the attack was a reprisal for the recent killing of its Benue State chairman, Ardo Risku Mohammed, in Ohimini Local Government Area.
The group warned that premature accusations and inflammatory social media comments could undermine ongoing investigations and further heighten tensions in the affected communities. It appealed to residents and its members to remain peaceful while allowing the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to determine those responsible for the attack.
As investigations continue, the association extended its condolences to the families of the victims and called for lasting peace across Otukpo and Benue State. Nigerians now await the outcome of the security agencies’ investigations into one of the latest deadly incidents to hit the state.
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