ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has denied allegations linking its members to the deadly attack on Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, urging security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation before assigning blame.
The association’s position comes after the early Sunday attack that reportedly left about 16 people dead and sparked protests by angry youths and women, who carried the victims’ bodies to the palace of the Ochidoma in condemnation of the killings.
In a statement issued on Monday by its state secretary, Ibrahim Galma, MACBAN condemned the attack, describing the loss of innocent lives as tragic while distancing Fulani herders from the incident.
The association appealed to members of the public to avoid what it described as premature conclusions linking the killings to herders without the outcome of security investigations.
According to Galma, Fulani residents had not been living in Otukpo and surrounding communities since they were allegedly driven out of the area last year.
READ ALSO Police Arrest Four Chiefs Over MACBAN Chairman’s Murder
“It is important for the public to note that all Fulani residents in Otukpo and its environs were forcefully evicted from the area sometime last year,” the statement said.
Galma added that even the community’s Fulani leader, Chairman Yenusa, left the area after efforts to restore peace failed.
He further claimed that Otukpo-Nobi, Okete, Amla-Icho and Otada communities had existing communal disputes, suggesting that investigators should examine all possible causes of the violence.
The association also dismissed suggestions that the attack was a reprisal for the recent killing of its chairman, Ardo Risku, warning that such claims could undermine ongoing investigations.
READ ALSO US Bill Proposes Visa Ban On Kwankwaso, Others Over Religious Freedom Violations
“Making such conclusions at this stage will only compromise the ongoing investigation being carried out by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies,” Galma said.
MACBAN called on its members and residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies as investigations continue.
It also urged authorities to monitor inflammatory comments circulating on social media, warning that unverified narratives and inciting remarks could worsen tensions and frustrate efforts to restore peace.
The association expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and prayed for lasting peace in Otukpo and other affected communities across Benue State.