Urgent Calls for Intervention Amid Escalating Violence in Benue State
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, Benue State chapter has raised serious concerns about ongoing violence targeting its members in the Ohimini Local Government Area. The association has called on both federal and state governments to take immediate action to address the alleged attacks and ensure justice for those affected.
In a statement released on Friday, signed by the state chairman, Ardo Risku Muhammad, MACBAN urged key security officials to investigate the incidents thoroughly. This includes the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Director-General of the Department of State Services. The association also requested the National Emergency Management Agency and the Benue State Emergency Management Agency to provide humanitarian aid to displaced herders.
According to the statement, the conflict began toward the end of August 2025 when armed individuals from the Awule community, reportedly supported by some personnel of the Benue State Volunteer Guard, launched a coordinated and unprovoked attack on Fulani settlements in the area. During this incident, six (6) Fulani settlements were completely destroyed, thirty (30) cows were killed, and many more were stolen. One herder, Mr. Isu Abdulkarim, known as Dere, was brutally murdered. Despite extensive search efforts by his family and community members, his remains have not been recovered.
Ongoing Violence and Fear Among Communities
The MACBAN state chairman alleged that the violence has continued, with some members of the association being attacked and their cattle rustled. He emphasized that the repeated attacks, burning of settlements, and killings of innocent herders are orchestrated by criminals within the council. The situation has created a climate of fear and insecurity among Fulani communities in Ohimini and surrounding areas.
Muhammad described the herders in the local government as peaceful and law-abiding citizens. He called on the State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to direct security agencies to restore peace in the affected communities. The association reaffirmed its commitment to peace and dialogue but condemned the continued killings and destruction, urging authorities to act swiftly to restore law and order.
Recent Attacks and Government Response
The MACBAN allegations come just days after the Awule community in Ohinmini LGA was attacked, resulting in the reported killing of four farmers by suspected armed herders. The chairman of Ohimini LGA, Gabriel Adole, confirmed the attack and the deaths of his people by suspected armed herders. When contacted on Friday, Adole stated that the state governor has been responding to the security situation in the local government and expressed hope for further action.
“The state governor has been responding to the security situation in my local government, and I am already waiting to see the governor right now about the situation now,” Adole said.
Law Enforcement Actions
Operation Whirl Stroke, through its spokesperson Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, disclosed in a statement on Friday that three criminals were arrested with arms on Wednesday around Ohinmini LGA. This marks a step towards addressing the growing security challenges in the region.
Addressing the Root Causes of Conflict
The situation highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to resolving conflicts between herders and farmers in the region. While the immediate focus is on restoring security and providing relief, long-term solutions must address underlying issues such as land use disputes, resource allocation, and community relations.
The call for intervention from MACBAN underscores the urgency of the matter. With the continued escalation of violence, it is critical for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities involved.