Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has distanced itself from the recent killings in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state, insisting that its members had no involvement in the attack and calling for a comprehensive investigation to uncover those responsible.
The association’s reaction follows reports of deadly violence in the Nobi community of Otukpo, where several residents were reportedly killed in an incident that has heightened concerns over insecurity in Benue State. The killings have reignited debates over farmer-herder conflicts and the persistent security challenges affecting communities across Nigeria’s North Central region.
In a statement issued by the leadership of MACBAN in Benue State, the association condemned the killings, describing them as unfortunate and unacceptable. It maintained that linking Fulani cattle breeders or members of the association to every violent incident without evidence only fuels ethnic tension and undermines efforts to achieve lasting peace.
According to the association, there is no credible evidence connecting its members with the attack in Nobi. It urged security agencies to carry out a professional and transparent investigation rather than relying on speculation or public assumptions.
Calls for impartial investigation
MACBAN stressed that identifying and prosecuting the actual perpetrators is the only way justice can be served for the victims and their families.
The association appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, and other security agencies to conduct a thorough forensic and intelligence-based investigation into the killings.
It argued that premature accusations against Fulani herders without conclusive evidence could worsen existing tensions between farming and pastoral communities that have struggled to coexist peacefully for decades.
The group said every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law and insisted that criminal acts should be attributed to individuals rather than entire ethnic or occupational groups.
Condemns violence against innocent citizens
While denying any involvement, MACBAN expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones during the attack and prayed for the peaceful repose of those killed.
The association stated that violence benefits no one, emphasizing that both farmers and herders have suffered enormous losses from recurring attacks, cattle rustling, kidnappings, and communal conflicts across Benue and neighboring states.
It maintained that genuine cattle breeders are primarily interested in peaceful coexistence because their livelihoods depend on stable communities where they can carry out legitimate economic activities.
MACBAN also warned against retaliatory attacks, saying revenge could trigger another cycle of violence that would further endanger innocent lives.
Rising insecurity in Benue
Benue State has experienced repeated attacks over the years, with many communities facing displacement, destruction of property, and loss of lives.
Several local government areas, including Otukpo, Guma, Logo, Agatu, Kwande, Apa, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala, have recorded violent incidents linked to criminal gangs, communal clashes, armed banditry, and disputes over land and grazing routes.
The continued insecurity has displaced thousands of residents, disrupted farming activities, and worsened humanitarian conditions across many affected communities.
Security analysts have repeatedly argued that the complexity of violence in Benue requires careful investigation because different criminal groups often operate simultaneously, making it difficult to attribute attacks without credible evidence.
Appeal against ethnic profiling
MACBAN urged political leaders, community stakeholders, and the media to avoid statements capable of inflaming ethnic or religious divisions.
The association warned that branding an entire ethnic group as criminals based on isolated incidents could undermine peacebuilding efforts and deepen mistrust among communities.
It emphasized that criminality has no ethnic or religious identity and that every suspect should be investigated and prosecuted based on available evidence.
According to the association, many Fulani pastoralists living peacefully in Benue have themselves become victims of attacks, cattle theft, and displacement, yet such incidents often receive limited public attention.
Importance of dialogue
The association reiterated its commitment to dialogue with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organizations, and government institutions to reduce conflicts between farmers and herders.
It said sustainable peace cannot be achieved through accusations and reprisals but through continuous engagement, improved security, and effective conflict-resolution mechanisms.
MACBAN encouraged both farming and pastoral communities to report suspicious activities to security agencies rather than taking the law into their own hands.
It also called on governments at all levels to strengthen early warning systems capable of detecting potential conflicts before they escalate into violence.
Government urged to strengthen security
The association appealed to the Benue State Government and the Federal Government to improve security presence in vulnerable communities.
According to MACBAN, increased patrols, intelligence gathering, rapid emergency response, and stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities are necessary to prevent future attacks.
It further advocated for increased investment in peacebuilding initiatives, conflict mediation, and modern livestock management systems that could reduce disputes over land use.
Experts have long argued that addressing the underlying causes of insecurityโincluding poverty, unemployment, climate pressures, weak law enforcement, and competition over natural resourcesโremains essential to achieving lasting peace.
Community leaders seek justice
Community leaders in Otukpo have continued to demand justice for victims of the killings while urging authorities to identify those behind the attack.
Residents have appealed for stronger security measures to prevent further violence and enable displaced families to return safely to their homes.
Civil society organizations have similarly called for independent investigations, insisting that accountability is necessary to restore public confidence in law enforcement and deter future attacks.
Many observers believe that transparent investigations, followed by swift prosecution of those found guilty, will help reduce misinformation and prevent the spread of narratives capable of escalating communal tensions.
Security experts advocate evidence-based investigations
Security experts have consistently advised against assigning blame before investigations are completed.
According to analysts, misinformation following violent attacks often complicates security operations, fuels reprisals, and creates additional challenges for investigators seeking credible evidence.
They argue that intelligence-driven policing, forensic analysis, witness protection, and community cooperation are essential components of effective criminal investigations.
Experts also stress that improving trust between local communities and security agencies could significantly enhance information sharing and early intervention.
Need for lasting peace
The latest incident has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in parts of Benue State and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that combine law enforcement with community reconciliation.
Stakeholders continue to call for stronger collaboration among traditional institutions, religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organizations, and government authorities to address recurring violence.
As investigations continue, residents hope those responsible for the killings will be identified and brought to justice while innocent individuals and communities are protected from unfounded accusations.
For now, MACBAN maintains that its members had no role in the Otukpo Nobi killings and insists that only a credible, transparent, and impartial investigation can establish the facts surrounding the tragic incident.
Sources
- Daily Trust
- The Nation Newspaper
- Vanguard Nigeria
- Channels Television
- Nigerian Tribune
Tags: Benue killings, MACBAN, Otukpo, Fulani herders, Nigeria security
Meta Description: MACBAN has denied involvement in the recent killings in Benue’s Otukpo Nobi community, condemning the attack and calling for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible while urging against ethnic profiling.
