Makurdi, Benue State – Tension has gripped parts of Benue State following the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Ardo Muhammad, and another man identified as Yakubu Isah.
The two men were reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Friday in Otukpo Local Government Area, an incident that has sparked fear among residents and heightened security concerns in neighbouring communities.
According to sources familiar with the development, the victims had earlier attended a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ohinmini Local Government Area. The meeting brought together Fulani leaders and representatives of the Ayunne community to discuss recent security challenges and explore ways to strengthen peaceful coexistence in the area.
After the meeting, Ardo Muhammad and Yakubu Isah were said to have been attacked by armed assailants while travelling, although the exact circumstances surrounding the ambush remain unclear.
The killing has raised fresh concerns over the fragile security situation in Otukpo and Ohinmini local government areas, where tensions have persisted amid recurring clashes and criminal attacks.
Residents expressed fear that the latest incident could undermine ongoing peace efforts and further strain relations between communities if those responsible are not swiftly identified and brought to justice.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the attack or confirm whether any arrests had been made. However, local sources said security personnel had intensified patrols in the affected areas to prevent possible reprisals and restore calm.
Community leaders have appealed for restraint, urging residents not to take the law into their own hands while investigations continue. They also called on the government and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve security across vulnerable communities in Benue State.
The attack comes at a time when authorities have been intensifying dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives aimed at reducing violence and fostering understanding among different groups in the state.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more verified information becomes available.
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