MACBAN cries out, alleges incessant attacks on herders in Benue

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State Chapter, has called on the federal and Benue State governments, as well as, security agencies to intervene urgently and halt the persistent and violent attacks on Fulani herders by members of the Awule community in Ohimini Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

The state Chairman of MACBAN, Ardo Risku Muhammad, made this plea in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Makurdi, on Friday.

Muhammad said: “The unfortunate crisis began toward the end of August 2025, when armed individuals from the Awule community, reportedly supported by some personnel of the Benue State Volunteer Guard, launched a coordinated and unprovoked attacks on Fulani settlements in the area.

“During the incident, six Fulani settlements were completely burned and destroyed, 30 cows were killed and many were rustled and one herder, Mr Isu Abdulkarim (popularly known as Dere), was brutally murdered.

“His remains have not been recovered despite several search efforts by his relatives and community members. Since that initial attack, the violence has continued, resulting in further loss of lives and property.

“On 3rd November, 2025, another herder, Mr. Muhammadu Ali, was ambushed and attacked while peacefully grazing his cattle. Several of his cows were killed during the assault. The following day, 4th November, 2025, while Mr Muhammadu Ali and his servant, Mr Hamisu Jaube, went in search of the missing animals, they were again ambushed by the same group. Mr Ali was shot and killed instantly, while Mr Hamisu narrowly escaped.”

The MACBAN chairman said all incidents were immediately reported to the relevant authorities, saying despite the reports and formal complaints, no arrests have been made to date, and the perpetrators continue to operate freely, further aggravating tensions in the area.

He alleged the theft of Fulani cows and the deliberate killing of innocent herders by armed members of the Awule community, saying that the Fulani herders in the affected area have been peaceful, law-abiding citizens, who engage solely in their legitimate livestock activities.

According to him: “The repeated attacks, burning of settlements, and killings of innocent herders have created a serious atmosphere of fear and insecurity among Fulani communities in Ohimini and its environs. The continued inaction of the relevant authorities has emboldened the perpetrators and threatens the peace and stability of the entire region.”