The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and his companion, Yakubu Isa.
​The breakthrough followed a coordinated, intelligence-led operation by tactical teams on Saturday night, June 27, 2026, in the Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.
​The late MACBAN chairman and his friend were ambushed and shot dead on Friday at Okudu village in Otukpo LGA. Ironically, the duo was returning from a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ohinmini LGA. The meeting, which brought together community leaders and nomadic herders, was aimed at settling recent communal clashes in Ayunne Community.
​Gunmen intercepted their vehicle shortly after they left the dialogue, killing both men on the spot and sparking fears of renewed communal violence across the state.
​In a statement issued on Sunday in Makurdi, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the swift arrests and identified the 10 suspects currently in custody.
​The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, highly commended the tactical and investigative teams for their rapid, professional response. He reassured the public that the dragnet is still open.
​”The command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” Nwadiogbu stated, appealing for calm as investigations expand to track down remaining conspirators.
​The killing has drawn sharp condemnation from the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who described the incident as a direct attempt by “forces of chaos” to derail the hard-earned peace his administration has fostered.
While extending his condolences to the MACBAN community and the families of the victims, Governor Alia ordered security agencies to leave no stone unturned in ensuring complete justice, while urging residents not to take the law into their own hands.
