Gunmen kill MACBAN chairman in Taraba

Gunmen have killed the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, raising fresh concerns over insecurity in the area.

Ibrahim Saidu, popularly known as D.O, was reportedly shot dead outside his residence in Anguwan Abuja, opposite Rogo Primary School, Takum, on Sunday evening.

Sources familiar with the incident said the attackers arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire on Mr Saidu at close range shortly after he returned from the Takum Cattle Market.

He reportedly died at the scene.

The motive for the attack and the identities of the assailants remained unknown as of Tuesday.

Confirming the killing in a statement on Tuesday, the police said they had commenced an investigation into the incident.

The police spokesperson, Victor Mshelizah, said preliminary information indicated that the attackers arrived on a motorcycle before attacking the deceased’s residence.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Edwin Ogbegaghа, has directed that all necessary measures be taken to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The command also said it was working with other security agencies to strengthen security in the affected area and prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.

The police appealed to residents, particularly family members, associates and supporters of the deceased, to remain calm and avoid actions capable of triggering reprisal attacks.

It also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or allegations that could undermine the investigation and threaten peaceful coexistence.

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The North-east Zonal Chairman of MACBAN, Saha’bi Tukura, expressed grief over the killing, describing it as a rude shock to members of the association.

Mr Tukura called on security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

He also urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and determine the motive behind the attack.

The MACBAN leader said the incident had heightened anxiety among members of the association and residents, stressing the need for urgent security intervention.