Nine pastoralists were killed during an armed attack on Ika Achelle village in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State. The assault occurred on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Victims included babies, children, and women from the herding community. Attackers also burned homes and stole over 200 cattle during the raid.
Several survivors sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at Ankpa General Hospital. Their conditions vary in severity.
Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has demanded a full investigation. They want authorities to identify those responsible and uncover what sparked the violence.
Suleiman Muhammed, MACBAN's Kogi State secretary, condemned the killings as unacceptable. He noted that such attacks threaten peace between communities.
"Nigeria belongs to all citizens, and every Nigerian deserves equal protection under the law," Muhammed stated in Lokoja on Monday. He emphasized that human life must be valued regardless of religion, ethnicity, or profession.
MACBAN called on security agencies to act swiftly. They demanded arrests and justice for the victims' families.
The association urged pastoralists and residents to stay calm. Muhammed asked them to let security forces do their work without interference.
Those killed were identified as Isiaka Lawal, Larai Musa, Abdullahi Isiaka, Isah Isiaka, Saleh Isiaka, Samsiya Adamu, Asma'u Siuni, Basullube Musa, and Bello Musa. Three others—Husseini Haruna, Abdullahi Abdullahi, and Sa'ida Haruna—were wounded.
MACBAN sent condolences to grieving families. The organization called on government, humanitarian groups, and officials to provide urgent relief and medical support.
Kogi State Police Command spokesperson ASP Oyiza Afusat didn't respond to requests for comment. Efforts to reach her before publication deadline proved unsuccessful.
