KEY POINTS
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Gunmen killed Taraba MACBAN chairman Ibrahim Saidu at his residence in Takum.
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The attackers reportedly arrived on motorcycles and fled after the shooting.
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Police confirmed the killing and launched an investigation and manhunt.
Gunmen have killed the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, Alhaji Ibrahim Saidu.
The association’s chairman was reportedly shot several times by armed assailants who invaded his residence in Anguwan Rogo, Takum town, on Sunday evening, November 8.
According to Daily Trust, residents said the attackers arrived on motorcycles with their faces covered before opening fire on Saidu.
The killing has raised fresh concerns about the security situation in Taraba State, particularly amid recurring attacks by armed groups in different parts of the state.
Gunmen Attack Chairman at His Residence
Sources in the community said Saidu was attacked shortly after returning home from the cattle market in Takum.
A neighbour, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the assailants arrived on motorcycles and shot the MACBAN chairman multiple times before fleeing to an unknown destination.
The attack reportedly threw the neighbourhood into confusion as residents reacted to the killing.
The neighbour described Saidu as a peaceful individual who maintained cordial relationships with people in the community, adding that his death had left residents and acquaintances mourning.
“Late Ibrahim was a good neighbour and had lived with everyone in harmony. We are all mourning his death,” the source said.
Saidu, who was popularly known as D.O., was buried on Tuesday in accordance with Islamic rites.
Police Confirm Killing, Launch Manhunt
The Taraba State Police Command confirmed the killing, saying the MACBAN chairman was attacked by armed men at his residence in Takum.
The Command’s spokesperson, Victor Mshelizah, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, adding that preliminary information indicated that the attackers arrived on motorcycles before carrying out the assault.
According to the police, investigations have commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The Commissioner of Police in Taraba State, Edwin Ogbeghagha, has also directed officers to undertake all necessary investigative measures to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing.
The police did not disclose whether any suspects had been identified or arrested in connection with the attack.
Security Agencies Step Up Efforts
The police spokesperson said the Command was working with other security agencies to strengthen security in the affected community and prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.
The collaboration is expected to support efforts to track down the attackers and maintain calm in Takum and surrounding communities.
Mshelizah appealed to members of the affected communities, as well as the deceased’s family, associates and supporters, to remain calm and avoid actions that could trigger further violence.
He particularly warned against reprisal attacks, urging residents not to take the law into their own hands while investigations continue.
The police also cautioned the public against circulating unverified reports, rumours or allegations that could undermine the investigation or threaten peaceful coexistence.
Residents with credible information that could assist investigators were encouraged to report to the police or other appropriate security agencies.
Police Commiserate With MACBAN
The Taraba State Police Command expressed condolences to Saidu’s family, associates and members of MACBAN over his death.
The Command assured the public that investigations were ongoing and reiterated its commitment to identifying those responsible for the killing.
The incident adds to growing security concerns in Taraba State, where attacks by gunmen have continued to affect residents and communities.
The killing of a prominent cattle breeders’ association leader also raises concerns about the safety of community representatives and residents in areas experiencing recurring violence.
