A farmer has been arrested in connection with the poisoning of cows in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
The arrest follows an investigation into the recent poisoning of 20 cows, which has been strongly condemned by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
According to MACBAN Chairman Risku Muhammed, the incident occurred on Saturday in Ucha village, where a farmer, identified as Bawa Oneh, allegedly laced rice chaff with poison and invited a herder to feed it to the cows.
This led to the death of 13 cows, with seven others being treated by a veterinary doctor.
Muhammed accused criminal elements in Agatu LGA of poisoning and rustling cattle, citing several villages where similar incidents have occurred.
He commended the prompt action of the Agatu LGA chairman, Melvin James, and praised the local government and non-governmental organizations for their support.
Chairman James confirmed the arrest and assured that the situation is under investigation.
He also requested more security operatives to be deployed to the area to maintain peace.
The spokesperson for the State Police Command, Catherine Anene, confirmed the arrest of the suspect linked to the poisoning and noted that a peace committee has been working to ensure peace prevails in the region.
