Benue MACBAN has denied allegations linking its members to the deadly Otukpo-Nobi attack, urging security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation before assigning blame.
MAKURDI, BENUE STATE — The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has distanced itself from the deadly attack on Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, insisting that its members were not involved in the incident and urging security agencies to carry out a comprehensive investigation before drawing conclusions.
The association's response comes amid heightened tensions following the early Sunday morning attack that reportedly claimed at least 18 lives in Otukpo communities, including 16 persons killed in Otukpo-Nobi and two farmers earlier attacked in nearby Akpachi village.
The violence triggered widespread condemnation, protests by residents and renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in Benue South.
Reacting to public allegations that suspected herders were responsible for the killings, the association maintained that there was no evidence linking its members to the attack.
Benue MACBAN said it was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
The association stressed that attributing responsibility without the outcome of an official investigation could undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace and encourage unnecessary tension among communities.
It therefore appealed to residents, community leaders and public commentators to avoid speculation while security agencies carry out their investigations.
MACBAN urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to conduct a thorough, impartial and evidence-based investigation capable of identifying those truly responsible for the attack.
According to the association, only a transparent investigation and prosecution of those directly involved would ensure justice for victims while preventing innocent individuals or groups from being wrongly accused.
The group also appealed for law enforcement agencies to make their findings public once investigations are concluded in order to build public confidence in the justice process.
The latest statement comes against the backdrop of increasing violence in parts of Benue State, where several rural communities have experienced repeated attacks in recent months.
The Otukpo-Nobi incident has heightened fears among residents, particularly as it followed the killing of the Benue State Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, who was ambushed and killed alongside his associate while returning from a peace meeting in June.
Although some observers have speculated about possible reprisals, security agencies have not officially established any connection between the two incidents.
Authorities have continued to caution against spreading unverified claims capable of escalating tensions or interfering with ongoing investigations.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the Otukpo killings, describing the attack as a barbaric assault on innocent residents and directing security agencies to intensify operations across affected communities.
Military personnel, police operatives and other security agencies have since increased patrols in vulnerable areas while intelligence-gathering efforts continue to identify those responsible.
The state government has also appealed to residents to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist investigators.
Benue has remained one of Nigeria's most affected states by recurring violence involving farming communities, suspected armed herders and criminal groups.
Statements issued by stakeholders following such attacks often shape public perception, making it essential that investigations remain professional, transparent and evidence-driven.
Security experts have consistently warned that assigning blame before investigations are concluded could inflame tensions, undermine peacebuilding efforts and complicate criminal investigations.
As security agencies continue investigations into the Otukpo-Nobi killings, attention will remain focused on identifying the perpetrators and ensuring they are brought to justice.
Residents are hopeful that the latest attack will result not only in arrests and prosecutions but also in strengthened security measures capable of preventing further violence in Benue's rural communities.
For now, authorities continue to urge restraint while investigations progress, emphasizing that accountability must be based on credible evidence rather than speculation.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor official developments and provide verified updates as investigations into the Otukpo-Nobi attack unfold.
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