The Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has reported the theft of at least 340 cattle by suspected rustlers in July.
In a statement issued Thursday by the association’s secretary, Ibrahim Galma, and made available to journalists in Makurdi, MACBAN said the incidents occurred mainly in Agatu and parts of Guma LGA of the state.
According to the statement, rustlers from Agatu have extended their operations into border communities in Kogi State. It cited three specific incidents between July 19 and 24, including the theft of 73 cattle from one Sale Abubakar, 80 from Ardo Sarkin Fulani Bagana (50 of which remain missing), and 213 from Garah Mobaba.
MACBAN expressed concern over rising insecurity affecting herders and called on the Benue State Government to intervene.
“We are appealing to the government to investigate these incidents, arrest the perpetrators, and compensate the victims to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders,” the statement said.
When contacted, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, James Melvin, confirmed the report and urged security agencies to act swiftly. However, the governor’s special adviser on security, Joseph Har, told Punch he was unaware of any rustling in Agatu. Instead, he alleged that herders’ cattle had trespassed on farmlands, prompting authorities to seize them until compensation was paid.
Efforts to reach the state police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as calls and text messages went unanswered.
