In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the Ukwulu community of Dunokofia Local Government Area in Anambra State, a herdsman identified as Zakari Sale was shot dead. This heart-wrenching revelation came to light on Friday, August 25, when Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, the leader of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MCBAN) in the South East, disclosed the harrowing details.
According to Siddiki, the dire situation took a bleak turn as he shared that a grim discovery had been made just days earlier. The lifeless bodies of 15 cows were found in the very same community, bearing testament to the escalating violence in the area.
Speaking with heavy sorrow, Siddiki recounted the distressing sequence of events. “I came to know about the incident when the brother of the slain herdsman, Haruna Sale, called me on Wednesday, August 23,” he stated. “He told me that his brother had been missing since August 21, 2023. Immediately after the call, we set up a search party, ultimately uncovering Zakari Sale’s decomposed body concealed within a bush near the community.”
Tragically, the victim had been shot in the head and left leg, his body bearing the signs of a horrifying crime. Authorities acted swiftly, and the remains were transported to the Chukwumemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Amaku-Awka, with the assistance of the police from Dunokofia Divisional Police Headquarters Ukpo. Subsequently, the hospital officially confirmed Zakari Sale’s passing.
In accordance with Islamic rites, the herdsman was laid to rest, surrounded by mourning loved ones and a community shaken by this appalling act. The local Traditional ruler, known for his leadership, addressed the somber gathering. He revealed that he had advised Siddiki’s constituents living within the community to temporarily relocate, granting him the space to evaluate and address the security crisis gripping the area.
Siddiki voiced his concerns about the prevalent tactic adopted by criminals operating in the region, who often disguise themselves as Fulani herders. Urgent action is imperative, and Siddiki called upon the State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, to reinforce the farmers/herders committee framework initially established by former governor Willie Obiano. This mechanism aims to facilitate the resolution of such cases within the state.
As Siriki Fulani in Anambra, Siddiki assumed a leadership role, beseeching security agencies to tirelessly pursue justice for Zakari Sale’s tragic demise. He also appealed to his fellow community members to remain composed and continue their daily activities, despite the looming sense of fear and uncertainty. The community’s hopes for justice, security, and an end to the cycle of violence now rest on the shoulders of authorities tasked with maintaining law and order.
