The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the murder of Alhaji Umar Sanda, a prominent leader of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), in the state. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, has sparked tension in the area, prompting the police to launch a full-scale investigation.
According to the police, Sanda was attacked by unknown assailants while returning home from a meeting in Ilorin, the state capital. He was reportedly shot multiple times and died on the spot. The assailants fled the scene before the arrival of security operatives.
In a statement issued by the Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer, Okasanmi Ajayi, the command described the killing as a “dastardly act” and assured the public that no stone would be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice. “We have launched a manhunt for the suspects and are working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that peace is maintained in the area,” Ajayi said.
The murder has raised concerns about the security situation in Kwara State, particularly in rural areas where clashes between herders and farmers have been reported in the past. Miyetti Allah officials have called for calm and urged their members to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
Alhaji Bello Abdullahi, the state chairman of MACBAN, described Sanda’s death as a great loss to the association and the herding community. “Alhaji Umar Sanda was a peace-loving leader who worked tirelessly to promote harmony between herders and farmers. His death is a big blow to us, and we demand justice,” Abdullahi said.
The Kwara State government has also condemned the killing and called for a thorough investigation. In a statement, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” urging security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
“We will not tolerate any act of violence or lawlessness in Kwara State. The security of lives and property remains our top priority, and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to maintain peace and order,” the governor said.
As the investigation unfolds, residents of the state are hopeful that the police will swiftly apprehend the suspects and prevent further escalation of tensions.