The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State has raised concerns over the alleged poisoning and rustling of its members’ cattle in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA).
READ ALSO: Gov. Yusuf commissions upgraded Dambatta cattle market
Risku Muhammed, the MACBAN chairman in the state, stated that over 20 cows belonging to Fulani herdsmen were poisoned on Saturday in Ucha village, Agatu.
According to Muhammed, aside from the poisoned cattle, over 200 cows were stolen last Thursday by suspected criminals. However, he acknowledged the swift response of security operatives, which led to the arrest of one suspect, while others managed to escape.
Muhammed accused a local farmer in Ucha community of deliberately poisoning the cattle using rice chaff laced with harmful substances. He reported that 13 cows died instantly, while seven others are currently undergoing treatment.
In response to the allegations, Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed that his office had received MACBAN’s complaint and that an investigation was underway. He revealed that a farmer had been apprehended in connection with the poisoned cattle and assured that the authorities were handling the situation.
Ejeh further highlighted that Agatu had been experiencing relative peace due to the efforts of the state government and security forces. He, however, called for additional security deployment to the area to prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, the police confirmed the incident, stating that a suspect was in custody and that investigations were ongoing to uncover the full details of the matter.
