Authorities Investigate as Miyetti Allah Condemns Attack on Herders
Authorities in Benue State have arrested a farmer in connection with the poisoning of cattle in Agatu Local Government Area. The arrest follows an investigation into the incident, which resulted in the deaths of 20 cows and has sparked strong condemnation from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
According to MACBAN’s Benue State Chairman, Risku Muhammed, the poisoning took place in Ucha village on Saturday. He alleged that the farmer, identified as Bawa Oneh, mixed poison with rice chaff and encouraged a herder to feed it to his cows. As a result, 13 cows died on the spot, while seven others are undergoing treatment.
“We received distressing reports that a criminal deliberately poisoned rice chaff and lured a herder to feed it to his cattle,” Muhammed stated. “Sadly, 13 cows perished instantly, while veterinarians are treating the surviving seven.”
The poisoning incident comes shortly after a separate case of cattle rustling, during which 200 cows were stolen. Security personnel managed to apprehend one of the suspected rustlers, though others evaded capture.
Muhammed praised Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin James, for his swift response to the matter. He also commended the local government and NGOs for their continued support, including compensating herders for cattle lost to criminal attacks.
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“The local government, along with NGOs, has been instrumental in providing compensation for cows lost to these criminal activities,” he said.
He further claimed that criminal elements have been orchestrating cattle rustling and targeted attacks in several villages, including Olegodege, Utigologwu, Egwuma, Akele, Okwtanobe, and now Ucha.
Confirming the arrest, Agatu LGA Chairman Melvin James stated that the case was under investigation. He reassured the public that authorities are working to address security concerns and maintain the relative peace that the region has recently enjoyed.
“We have received complaints from Miyetti Allah, and an investigation is ongoing,” James said. “Agatu has made significant progress in peacebuilding, and we will not allow criminal elements to disrupt it. The government is committed to stopping them.”
He also called on the state government to deploy additional security forces to the area to prevent further incidents.
Meanwhile, Benue State Police Command spokesperson, Catherine Anene, confirmed the arrest of a suspect linked to the poisoning and stated that investigations are ongoing.
“A report of the poisoning was received, and a suspect has been apprehended,” Anene said. “Security personnel and peace committees are working hard to sustain stability in Agatu despite past challenges.”
