Seven More Suspects Apprehended in Connection with Murder of Benue MACBAN Chairman

The Benue State Police Command has arrested seven additional suspects, including an 80-year-old man, in connection with the killing of Alhaji Risku Mohammed, the state Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

The state MACBAN chairman and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were ambushed and killed by gunmen on June 26 around the Okukwu area of Otukpo Local Government Area. The attack occurred while they were returning home after participating in a peace initiative in the Ohinmini Local Government Area.

The latest arrests bring the total number of individuals detained in connection with the homicide to 17, following the initial apprehension of 10 suspects late last month. State police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet confirmed that the new suspects were taken into custody during intelligence-led, tactical operations aimed at tracking down all perpetrators linked to the crime.

The command identified the newly detained individuals as Chief Morgan Ejaga, 43; Chief Moses Anteyi, 45; Chief John Ogli, 58; Chief Yawuhu Adaji, 49; Sylvester Ajonye, 80; Aba Alexander Uloko, 59; and Fidelis Iduma, 45.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the investigating and tactical units for their thoroughness and sustained results. He assured the public that the investigation remains active, stating that anyone found to have directly or indirectly participated in the crime will be prosecuted according to the law.

The command also urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting security forces with timely information to preserve peace across the state.