The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria in Benue State, Mohammed Risku, has said that Fulani herdsmen are not responsible for the recent killings and kidnappings in the Benue South Senatorial District.
Speaking at a press conference in Makurdi on Sunday, Risku said he was surprised by the allegations linking Fulani herders to the growing insecurity in Otukpo and nearby communities.
He said, “If we join in the fight, I believe there would be no hiding place for criminal elements. I’m begging the people in Otukpo, including the chairman and all security apparatus, to let us have a peace committee. It would be easy to trace these bad people.”
Risku explained that he had already visited traditional rulers in Otukpo and suggested forming a peace committee that would include community youths. He said the aim is to work together to tackle banditry and restore peace.
His comments were made in his local language and interpreted by the state secretary of MACBAN, Ibrahim Galma.
Recently, the Otukpo area has witnessed a rise in violence, including kidnappings and killings. One major incident involved the abduction of all passengers on a Benue Links bus at Ikobi community.
Police have also confirmed that three suspects were arrested on Sunday in Ogoli, a community linked to the attacks in Otukpo and other parts of Benue South.
Risku called for cooperation among all groups and security agencies to stop the violence and ensure the safety of residents.
