Fresh details have emerged on the circumstances surrounding the killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
According to his family, the late chairman received an invitation from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) on Friday morning to attend a peace meeting at the Ohimini Divisional Police Headquarters. He initially planned to travel in his car but opted for a motorcycle with his associate, Yakubu Isah, due to poor road conditions. Two other Fulani leaders, Alhaji Muazu and Alhaji Gudel, travelled separately on their own motorcycles.
The family noted that several key stakeholders invited to the meeting, including the Ohimini Local Government Chairman and the Ado of Ohimini, were absent. Only the DPO and a few elderly men from Awule and Alulu communities were reportedly present. Issues discussed included the destruction of farmlands by cattle and community fears about visiting Fulani settlements to report grievances.
After the meeting, Alhaji Muazu and Alhaji Gudel left immediately, while Alhaji Risku and Yakubu Isah stayed briefly with the DPO before heading home. A short distance later, around 2 p.m. at Okwudu in Otukpo Local Government Area, gunmen ambushed their motorcycle, killing both men.
The family has described the circumstances as suspicious and is calling on the Benue State Government, the police, and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation. They are seeking answers on why a high-risk meeting was held without adequate security and why key invited stakeholders did not attend.
The late chairman was described as a peace advocate who worked consistently to promote harmony between herders and farming communities in Benue State. Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 10 suspects in connection with the killings, with investigations ongoing.
