The Benue State branch of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has raised an alarm regarding a surge in homicides, assaults, and livestock theft within the Benue South Senatorial District. According to the association, these acts have surpassed the scope of typical farmer-herder disagreements and have transformed into organized criminal activity.
Ibrahim Galma, the secretary for the group, released a statement on Wednesday calling upon the Benue State government, law enforcement, and local traditional leaders to intervene immediately to end the cycle of violence. Galma emphasized that the events in Zone C are driven by malicious individuals capitalizing on weak security to commit murder, arson, and mass displacement.
The association highlighted the June 26, 2026, assassination of its state chairman, Ardo Risku Muhammad, along with Yakubu Isah, near Okudu village in Otukpo. They also pointed to recent tragedies in Ogobia, Otukpo-Nobi, and Efeyi. Furthermore, MACBAN reported that between July 21 and July 28, multiple herder settlements in areas like Ugene, Ibagidi, and Olahimu faced arson and cattle theft.
To address the crisis, MACBAN is advocating for a joint peace committee involving the Fulani, Idoma, Igede, and Agatu groups. They have also demanded that security forces perform a comprehensive investigation to ensure those responsible face legal consequences. Finally, the group urged all Fulani residents to maintain peace and utilize legal avenues for their grievances, while insisting that the government must stabilize the region immediately.
