The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has raised alarm over the disappearance of one of its members in Apa Local Government Area, the poisoning of 20 cows, and the rustling of over 200 others in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
Speaking on Sunday, the Benue State Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Risku Muhammed, called on Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and security agencies to launch an investigation into the incident. He alleged that some criminal elements in Usha community, Agatu LGA, poisoned cattle belonging to herders and rustled a significant number of cows.
According to Muhammed, a farmer identified as Bawa Oneh allegedly poisoned rice chaff and invited a herder to graze on it, leading to the instant death of 13 cows, while seven others were being treated by veterinary doctors. He also disclosed that over 200 cows were rustled last Thursday, though security forces from Operation Whirl Stroke arrested one suspect while others fled.
Muhammed commended the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin James Ejeh, for his efforts in maintaining peace and compensating both herders and farmers in past disputes. He noted that similar cattle rustling incidents had been reported in Olegodege, Utigologwu, Egwuma, Akele, and Okwtanobe communities.
Confirming the incident, Agatu LGA Chairman Melvin James Ejeh stated that the farm owner Bawa Oneh had been arrested for allegedly poisoning the cows. He emphasized that the state government and security agencies have worked hard to maintain peace in Agatu.
“We have received complaints from MACBAN, and an investigation is ongoing. Agatu has enjoyed relative peace due to the peace committee set up to resolve disputes. However, some criminals are trying to disrupt this peace, and the government will not allow it,” Ejeh said.
He dismissed reports of a missing herder, stating that the only recorded case was a Fulani boy killed on February 17, 2025, which led to the arrest of two suspects, including a community chief, who are currently in police custody.
Additionally, Ejeh revealed that a cattle rustling syndicate had been apprehended, with a suspect identified as Gideon Otene and seven gang members currently in police custody for stealing 200 cows.
Police Confirm Investigation
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident through its Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, who stated that one suspect had been arrested and an investigation was underway.
“There is an active peace committee in Agatu working to sustain harmony in the area,” she added.
The Agatu LGA chairman has called for increased security deployment to the council, urging stakeholders to identify and apprehend criminal elements responsible for inciting violence in the region.
