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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State chapter, has condemned the persistent killings, attacks and cattle rustling in Benue South Senatorial District, describing the violence as outright criminality rather than a farmer-herder conflict.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Ibrahim Galma, on Thursday, the association said criminal elements were exploiting the fragile security situation to perpetrate murder, arson, cattle theft and forceful displacement of innocent citizens.
MACBAN alleged that repeated attacks in Otukpo and Ohimini LGAs had claimed lives, destroyed Fulani settlements, rustled cattle and displaced many families. It cited the June 26 killing of its leader, Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, as well as attacks on several communities, including Efeyi on July 28.
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The association also alleged that all Fulani settlements in the affected parts of Otukpo had been razed and accused a criminal gang of coordinating the attacks.
It urged the Benue State Government, security agencies and traditional rulers to establish a joint peace and security committee involving host communities and Fulani stakeholders, strengthen security presence and convene an emergency stakeholders’ meeting to restore peace.
MACBAN reaffirmed its commitment to peace and urged its members to remain law-abiding while seeking justice through lawful channels.
