The Benue State Police Command has launched an investigation into the killing of a herder, Mr. Hassan Suleiman, popularly known as Alhaji Fodar, who was reportedly murdered by unknown assailants in Ogobia area of the state.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, on December 7, 2025, the Command said the incident was reported on December 5, 2025, at about 8:30 a.m. by Alhaji Usman Amodu from Onyilaba Ukpobi in Ohimini Local Government Area.
“He reported at the Ogoli Divisional Headquarters that Hassan Suleiman, popularly known as Alhaji Fodar, had been attacked and killed by unknown persons in a bush area around Ogobia,” the statement said.
Following the report, a joint security team comprising the Nigerian Police Force, Civil Protection Guard, and the Nigerian Military, alongside some community members, moved to the scene of the crime.
“On arrival, the team found the lifeless body of the deceased with a deep cut on his neck, while one motorcycle believed to belong to the victim was recovered at the scene,” the police added.
No suspect was arrested at the scene. However, the Command disclosed that while returning from the area, some friends of the deceased began pointing accusing fingers at individuals in Ogobia town.
“The identification was emotional and based on mere suspicion, and as such, no arrest was made,” the statement clarified.
Mourners were advised to remain calm and allow the police to carry out a professional investigation that would lead to the arrest of those responsible.
Assuring the public of justice, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, said the Command would remain neutral and thorough.
“The Command under my watch will remain impartial and will ensure that suspects involved in the dastardly act are arrested,” Emenari said.
He disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a detailed investigation.
The police further warned members of the public against spreading misinformation capable of causing tension in the area.
“Members of the public are urged to disregard misleading claims that may not help the investigation but could lead to a breach of peace,” the statement concluded.
