The chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Mohammed Risku, has accused criminal elements in Agatu Local Government Area of the state of poisoning their 20 cows.

Risku told journalists in Makurdi on Sunday that cattle rustlers and other criminals in the area were targeting their livestock.

He explained that the latest incident occurred on Saturday in Ucha village, where a farmer, identified as Bawa Oneh, allegedly laced rice chaff with poison and invited a herder to graze his cattle.

He said that the poisoned feeds reportedly led to the death of 13 cows, while seven others are currently receiving veterinary treatment, alleging also that 200 cows were rustled on Thursday, but swift intervention by security operatives led to the arrest of one suspect, while others fled.

“I received reports from my members in Agatu LGA that a criminal mixed poison with rice chaff and tricked one of our herders into grazing there. Unfortunately, 13 cows died instantly, and seven are being treated,” he said.

Risku, however, commended Agatu council chairman, Melvin James, for addressing concerns between herders and farmers, noting that some NGOs working in the area had previously compensated for cows lost in similar incidents.

Responding to the allegations, Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin James, confirmed that the council had received MACBAN’s complaints and launched an investigation.

The chairman said that a farmer had been arrested in connection with the poisoning and assured that the area remains relatively peaceful due to ongoing security efforts.

“We are investigating the matter. Agatu has been enjoying peace through a dedicated peace committee that meets regularly to address security issues. However, some criminal elements are trying to disrupt this process. The government will not allow that,” he said.

James urged the state government to deploy additional security operatives to maintain stability in the area.

Spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, CSP Catherine Anene, also confirmed the incident, noting that one suspect had been arrested and an investigation was underway.

“I received a briefing this morning (Sunday) about the death of cows that were allegedly poisoned. A suspect has been arrested, and investigations are ongoing,” Anene added.