MACBAN says arrested Benue suspects were innocent travellers
The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria in Benue State, Ardo Muhammad, has stated that the men arrested in connection with a suspected kidnap case in Okpokwu were travellers, not kidnappers. According to Ardo Muhammad, the four Fulani men were journeying from Benue State to Onitsha to visit relatives when they were allegedly ambushed. Local authorities and residents reported a foiled kidnap attempt in the area, with suspects handed over to the police. Ardo Muhammad insists the arrested men were innocent and called for justice for the victims of the attack.
What happened
- Ardo Muhammad claimed that the four Fulani men arrested were travellers heading to Onitsha, not kidnappers.
- Residents reported that youths foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued five victims, with three suspects arrested and one escaping.
- The Chairman of Okpokwu Local Government Area, Adah Inalegwu, confirmed the suspects were strangers and said their involvement in the incident had not been established.
- Ardo Muhammad stated that one of the arrested men died from injuries sustained during the attack, while two others are receiving medical treatment.
- He called on security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the attack and dismissed claims linking the men to kidnapping.
