Ilorin, Nigeria — The Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Kwara State, Alhaji Idris Abubakar Sakaina, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Saturday evening. The attack occurred around 10 p.m. at the entrance of his residence in Oke Ose, Oke-Oyi, as he was returning home.
The spokesperson for MACBAN in the state confirmed the incident, describing it as a targeted attack. “He was coming back home late at night; then they attacked him when entering his house, they opened fire on him. That’s all we can say now,” the spokesperson stated during an interview with journalists.
In response to the incident, the Kwara State Police Command issued a statement on Sunday afternoon, confirming the assassination. SP Ejire Adetoun, the command’s spokesperson, revealed that officers recovered five expended 7.62mm shells from the scene. The police have deposited Sakaina’s remains at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) Mortuary.
Ongoing Investigation
The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has launched a full investigation into the murder. The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, psc(+), assured the public that no effort would be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“The Kwara State Police Command confirms the murder of Alhaji Idris Abubakar, the Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Kwara State, who was shot dead on 8th March 2025 at the entrance of his residence in Oke Ose, Oke-Oyi,” the statement read.
Olaiya urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement by providing any useful information that could assist in the investigation. The statement emphasized the command’s commitment to ensuring the security of lives and property across the state.
Shock and Mourning
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, expressed profound shock and sorrow over the killing of its leader. In a brief statement, the association condemned the act and called for a thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“This is a great loss to our association and the entire Fulani community in Kwara State. We urge security agencies to expedite their investigation and ensure that justice is served promptly,” a representative of MACBAN stated.
Sakaina was laid to rest on Sunday morning at the Zango area of Ilorin in accordance with Islamic rites. The burial was attended by family members, colleagues, and sympathizers who expressed grief over the sudden and violent end of the MACBAN leader.
Rising Concerns Over Insecurity
The assassination of Alhaji Sakaina has heightened concerns about the growing insecurity in Kwara State and the broader North-Central region of Nigeria. Community leaders have called on the government to bolster security measures to prevent further attacks.
As investigations continue, the police have appealed to the public for any information that might assist in identifying the assailants. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, adding to the tension and uncertainty surrounding the incident.
, assured the public that no effort would be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice){kind=link}