The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, in Benue State, Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, have been killed in an ambush by unidentified gunmen in Otukpo LGA.
The attack occurred about 2 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2026, near Okudu community as the duo returned from a peace and security meeting in neighbouring Ohimini LGA, according to reports.
—Killed returning from security meeting—
Sources said the meeting was convened by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, in Idekpa with stakeholders to discuss measures to improve security in the area.
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Shortly after leaving the meeting, Muhammad and Isah were reportedly ambushed by armed assailants who opened fire on their vehicle, killing them instantly.
Idris Muhammad, the deceased’s eldest son, confirmed the incident. “They killed my father, the Ardo, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, while they were returning from the peace meeting organised by the DPO in Ohimini. We have recovered their bodies and buried them in Oyangede,” he said.
—‘Tense’ situation as police launch probe—
Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Maxwell Ogiri, described the area as tense but urged residents not to take the law into their own hands. “The area is tense at the moment, but I appeal to everyone to remain calm. Security agencies have taken charge of the situation,” he said.
Ohimini LGA Chairman, Gabriel Adole, also confirmed the killings, calling it a tragic development given that the victims had just attended a peace meeting. He said security agencies had been alerted and expressed confidence that those behind the attack would be brought to justice.
Benue State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident and said an investigation had been launched. She assured residents that police were working to identify and arrest those responsible, while urging the public to remain peaceful and cooperate with investigators.
