Gunmen have killed the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Ardo Muhammad, and one other person, identified as Yakubu Isah. The incident occurred in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, triggering tension in Otukpo and neighbouring Ohinmini Local Government Area.
Ambush After Peace Meeting
According to reports from The Punch, the gunmen ambushed the MACBAN vehicle, killing Muhammad and Isah. The MACBAN chairman and his companion were returning after attending a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer of Ohinmini with leaders of the Ayunne community in Ohinmini.
The eldest son of the Miyetti Allah chairman confirmed the attack in a telephone interview with newsmen late on Friday, June 26, 2026.
Tension Grips Communities
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the killing and described the atmosphere in the area. “It is true that the state chairman of MACBAN was killed within Otukpo LGA this afternoon. The killing has raised tension in the community and environs,” Ogiri said.
Police Investigation Underway
The state police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, stated that an investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been reported as of yet. The attack has heightened security concerns in the region, which has experienced recurring farmer-herder conflicts.
