At least five members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) have been killed, while three others remain missing following a violent attack near the Kogi-Enugu border on Thursday, 14 March 2025.
MACBAN’s National Deputy Director General, Gidado Siddiki, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, alleging that it took place in Enugu State.
However, the Enugu State Police Command clarified that the attack actually occurred at Eshi River, a border point between Opanda in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State and Amaeke in Igalamela-Odolu LGA of Kogi State.
Enugu police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe stated that security operatives, including the police and military, swiftly responded to the scene and arrested two suspects.
He added that collaborative efforts with Kogi State authorities are underway to apprehend others who fled the scene.
Siddiki disclosed that eight MACBAN members were initially reported missing after the attack.
While the bodies of five victims have been recovered, the whereabouts of the remaining three remain unknown.
He emphasised that MACBAN members are law-abiding citizens engaged in cattle rearing and trading in the South East, contributing to economic growth just as Igbo traders do in the North.
Calling for a thorough investigation, Siddiki urged the government to identify and prosecute those responsible while implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and missing individuals, praying for divine comfort.
He also appealed to MACBAN members to remain calm and patient, expressing confidence in the government’s ability to deliver justice.
“We must trust the authorities to complete their investigation. Reports indicate that some suspects have already been arrested, and we believe justice will be served,” he stated.
