Benue State is on edge as the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has sounded the alarm over the alleged poisoning and rustling of Fulani herdsmen’s cattle in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA). The group claims that criminal elements are behind these attacks, threatening the fragile peace in the region.
The Chairman of MACBAN in Benue, Risku Muhammed, revealed that over 20 cows belonging to Fulani herdsmen were poisoned on Saturday at Ucha village in Agatu. He further disclosed that just two days earlier, over 200 cows were rustled by unidentified criminals. However, swift intervention by security operatives led to the arrest of one suspect while others managed to escape.
According to Muhammed, a farmer in Ucha village allegedly laced rice chaff with poison and invited a herder to graze his cattle on it. This act reportedly led to the instant death of 13 cows, while seven others are currently undergoing treatment by a veterinary doctor.
“I received reports from my members in Agatu LGA that a criminal had poisoned rice chaff and invited one of our members to graze on it. Thirteen cows died instantly, while seven are being treated,” Muhammed stated.
Despite the persistent attacks, Muhammed commended the Agatu Local Government Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, for his efforts in maintaining peace. He noted that the chairman, along with several non-governmental organizations operating in the area, has previously compensated herders for cows killed by criminals.
He further lamented the repeated losses suffered by herders in communities such as Olegodege, Utigologwu, Egwuma, Akele, Okwtanobe, and now Ucha, due to cattle rustling and poisoning.
In response, Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, acknowledged the complaints from MACBAN and assured that investigations were underway. He confirmed that a farmer had been arrested in connection with the poisoned cattle and reassured the public that Agatu remains relatively peaceful, thanks to collaborative efforts between the government and security operatives.
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“We have received complaints from Miyetti Allah, and investigations are ongoing. Agatu has enjoyed peace due to the Peace Committee set up to review and sustain the process daily. However, some criminal elements are bent on causing chaos, but the government will not allow that to happen,” Ejeh stated.
The LGA chairman urged the state government to deploy additional security personnel to Agatu to prevent further escalation of violence.
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, confirmed the development, stating that the authorities are actively investigating the matter. “I have a briefing this morning about dead cows allegedly poisoned. A suspect has been arrested, and investigations are ongoing,” she said.
Anene also reaffirmed the presence of a Peace Committee working tirelessly to sustain harmony in Agatu communities, ensuring that tensions do not spiral out of control.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the fragile peace between herders and local communities in Benue State, raising fears of renewed hostilities if urgent measures are not taken.
