Benue Myetti Allah Chairman Raises the Alarm over Poisoning of Thier Herds

The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Risku Muhammed, has raised the alarm over a recent incident where over 20 cows belonging to Fulani herdsmen were poisoned in Ucha village, Agatu.

According to Muhammed, the cows were poisoned by a farmer in the community who had laced rice chaff with a toxic substance and offered it to the herdsmen as food. The incident resulted in the death of 13 cows, while seven others are currently receiving treatment.

This incident is not an isolated one, as Muhammed reported that over 200 cows were stolen by criminals just last Thursday. However, thanks to the swift intervention of security operatives, one of the rustlers was apprehended while the others managed to escape.

Muhammed commended the Chairman of the Agatu Local Government Council, Melvin Ejeh, for his prompt response to the issue and his efforts to maintain peace in the area. He noted that the Council Chairman, along with some non-governmental organizations, has provided financial compensation for cows killed by criminals in the past.

The MACBAN Chairman also highlighted the fact that herders have suffered significant losses in various areas, including Olegodege, Utigologwu, Egwuma, Akele, Okwtanobe, and now Ucha, due to rustling and killing of their cows.

In response to the incident, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed that his office had received a complaint from MACBAN and was investigating the matter. A farmer has been arrested in connection with the poisoned cows. Ejeh attributed the relative peace enjoyed in Agatu in recent times to the efforts of the state government and security operatives, as well as the work of the Peace Committee set up in the area.

He vowed that the government would not tolerate any attempts by criminal elements to disrupt the peace process.