Livestock Under Siege: Miyetti Allah Claims Deliberate Cow Poisoning In Benue State

According to MACBAN’s state chairman, Risku Muhammed, the incident occurred over the weekend when more than 20 cows belonging to Fulani herdsmen were poisoned on Saturday in Ucha village, Agatu. In addition, over 200 cows were reportedly stolen last Thursday by the same group of criminals.

Muhammed claimed that a farmer from the Ucha community, whose identity remains undisclosed, poisoned the cows by lacing rice chaff with toxic substances. The farmer allegedly invited a herder to graze his cattle on the chaff, resulting in the death of 13 cows, while seven others are currently receiving veterinary treatment.

Security forces swiftly intervened, apprehending one suspect while the rest managed to escape. Muhammed praised the Local Government Council Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, for his prompt response to the herders’ complaints. He acknowledged that Ejeh, along with some NGOs working in the area, had previously compensated herders for cows killed by criminals.

Ejeh confirmed receiving complaints from MACBAN and stated that an investigation is ongoing. He expressed concern over the actions of criminal elements attempting to disrupt the relative peace recently achieved in Agatu, which he attributed to the collaborative efforts of the state government and security agencies.

The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident and noted that a suspect has been arrested while investigations continue. Anene also highlighted the efforts of the Peace Committee established to maintain harmony in the Agatu LGA.