By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State has reported multiple cases of cattle rustling allegedly involving herders in Agatu and parts of Guma Local Government Areas.
In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Ibrahim Galma, MACBAN on Thursday, appealed to Governor Hyacinth Alia to investigate the incidents, apprehend those responsible, and provide support to the affected herders to promote peaceful coexistence between farming and herding communities.
According to the association, on July 19, 2025, 73 cattle belonging to a herder named Sale Abubakar were rustled by suspected criminals from Eguma community in Agatu LGA.
They also alleged that two days later, another 80 cattle belonging to Ardo Sarkin Fulani Bagana were taken from the Kogi border area, with only 30 later recovered and on July 24, a herd of 213 cattle belonging to Garah Mobaba were rustled near the border between Kogi State and Agatu LGA.
The group also noted that similar incidents have been reported in some parts of Guma LGA, involving both cattle theft and attacks on herders.
In response, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin James, confirmed that he had received reports on the matter and had directed security agencies to investigate.
However, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Joseph Har, said he was not aware of any cattle rustling in Agatu.
He explained that the only case reported involved cattle entering farmlands in Guma LGA and damaging crops, adding that, the cattle were temporarily seized and later released after the owners paid compensation.
Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Catherine Anene, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
