Ardo Risku Muhammad, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), was fatally shot in an ambush by unknown assailants in the Otukpo Local Government Area. The attack took place Friday afternoon near the Okudu community as he and his associate, Yakubu Isah, traveled home.
Reports indicate that the pair had just departed a peace and security gathering organized by the Idekpa Divisional Police Officer in the nearby Ohimini Local Government Area. Armed individuals intercepted their vehicle and fired upon them, resulting in immediate fatalities. Idris Muhammad, the son of the slain chairman, verified the tragedy and stated that the families have retrieved the bodies for burial in Oyangede.
This violent act has sparked significant anxiety throughout the region regarding potential retaliatory violence. Maxwell Ogiri, the Otukpo Local Government Chairman, acknowledged the volatile atmosphere while urging the public to exercise restraint as law enforcement works to maintain order. Similarly, Gabriel Adole of the Ohimini Local Government confirmed the victims had attended a productive meeting prior to the ambush, labeling the event a regrettable development.
The Benue State Police Command, represented by spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet, has officially confirmed the investigation is underway. Authorities have pledged to track down the perpetrators and have called on community members to assist the police with their inquiries while maintaining peace.