Police arrest 80-year-old man, 6 other suspects in killing of Benue MACBAN leader
From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has arrested another seven suspects including 80-year-old Sylvester Ajonye linked with the killing of the state chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, MACBAN Ardo Alhaji Risku Mohammed.
Ardo Risku was ambushed and shot dead along with his friend Yakubu Isah on June 26th, 2026 in Okwudu, Otukpo local government area while returning from a peace meeting in Ohimini local government area.
Amidst widespread condemnation, shortly after his murder, the Police apprehended 10 suspects even as it stated that investigations were still ongoing.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Command Public Relations’ Officer DSP Edet Udeme on behalf of the State Police Commissioner Cletus Nwadiogbu to newsmen, the command stated that the arrest of the suspects followed sustained intelligence gathering, painstaking investigation and continuous tactical operations.
The statement also disclosed the names of the other suspect to include; Chief Morgan Ejaga, 43 years, Chief Moses Anteyi, 45 years, Chief John Ogli, 58 years, Chief Yawuhu Adaji, 49 years, Aba Alexander Uloko, 59 years and Fidelis Iduma, 45 years.
The CP commended the commitment and professionalism of the investigating and tactical teams whose sustained efforts have continued to yield positive results, assured Benue people that investigation into the case is still ongoing.
He vowed that every person found culpable in commission of the crime will be identified, apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Nwadiogbu appealed to members of the public to remain calm, and continue to support the Police and other security agencies with credible and timely information that will aid the investigation.
He said the Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and maintenance of peace, law and order across the state.



