The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has raised concerns over the alleged poisoning and rustling of cattle belonging to its members in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA).
Chairman of MACBAN in the state, Risku Muhammed, disclosed over the weekend that more than 20 cows were reportedly poisoned on Saturday in Ucha village.
He also alleged that last Thursday, over 200 cattle were stolen, though security operatives intervened and managed to apprehend one of the suspects while the others fled.
Muhammed claimed that a farmer in Ucha was responsible for poisoning the cows by mixing toxic substances with rice chaff before inviting a herder to graze his cattle there.
As a result, 13 cows allegedly died on the spot, while seven others are currently receiving veterinary treatment.
He commended Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, for his swift intervention in resolving disputes involving herders and local communities.
Muhammed further noted that herders had suffered losses in several communities, including Olegodege, Utigologwu, Egwuma, Akele, Okwtanobe, and now Ucha, due to cattle rustling and targeted attacks.
Responding to the situation, Agatu LGA Chairman Melvin Ejeh confirmed that MACBAN had lodged a complaint, and investigations were already underway.
He stated that a farmer had been taken into custody in connection with the poisoning and emphasized that Agatu had been relatively peaceful in recent times due to the combined efforts of the state government and security agencies.
“We have received reports from Miyetti Allah, and investigations are ongoing. Agatu has enjoyed peace for some time now, thanks to the Peace Committee that continues to monitor and review security developments. Unfortunately, certain criminal elements are attempting to disrupt this stability, but the government will not allow such actions to prevail,” Ejeh said.
He urged the state government to deploy additional security personnel to the LGA to prevent further incidents.
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer in Benue, CSP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident, stating that investigations were in progress.
She also acknowledged the active role of the Peace Committee in maintaining harmony in Agatu LGA.