Following the alleged killing of nine pastoralists at Ika in Ankpa local government of Kogi state by armed hoodlums, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has called for thorough investigation to establish the perpetrators, and the root cause of the incident.

Reports from area noted that babies, children and women were alleged to be victims of the Thursday 21st May 2026 attack at Ika Achelle (ALIFOETI) village in the community .

Locals added that homes of the herders or pastoralists in the community were burnt down completely, and over 200 cattle were rustled in the process .

Several of the herders that reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries in the attack are said to be receiving treatment at Ankpa General Hospital.

According to the State secretary, Kogi state chapter of MACBAN , Suleiman Muhammed the continued targeting and killing of innocent pastoralists is “dangerous, unacceptable and capable of worsening tensions among peaceful communities”.

The organization stated that the sanctity of human life must be preserved at all times, regardless of ethnic background, religion or occupation.

“Nigeria belongs to all citizens, and every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law.

“We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest terms and call on security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, arrest the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served.

“We urge members of the pastoralist community and all residents of the area to remain calm and law-abiding, while allowing security agencies to carry out their responsibilities”, said Muhammed in a statement to newsmen in Lokoja on Monday .

However, MACBAN had extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured persons, calling on government at ail levels, humanitarian organizations and relevant authorities to urgently provide relief and medical assistance to the affected families.

According to MACBAN, those killed in the attack include: IsiakaLawal, Larai Musa (wife of Isiaka Lawal) , Abdullahi lsiaka , Isah Isiaka , Saleh Isiaka, Samsiya Adamu, Asma’u Siuni , Basullube Musa and Bello Musa , while Husseini Haruna , Abdullahi Abdullahi and Sa’ida Haruna sustained injuries in the process.

The state police command’s spokesperson ASP Oyiza Afusat was contancted over the issue but failed to respond as at the time of filing in the report . (Daily Trust)