The Kwara State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Idris Abubakar, was tragically murdered on Saturday night, prompting a police investigation and widespread condemnation. Mr. Abubakar, 32, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in front of his residence at Oke Ose in the Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on March 8, 2025.

Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi confirmed the incident, stating that detectives recovered five expended 7.62mm shells from the scene. "The Kwara State Police Command confirms the murder of Alhaji Idris Abubakar... who was shot dead on 8th March 2025 at the entrance of his residence," she said. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has commenced a full investigation, with Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya assuring that the perpetrators will be brought to justice. The police are urging the public to remain calm and provide any useful information.

Muhammed Abdullahi, the special assistant to the state governor on Inter-Community Relations (Fulani), also confirmed the killing. "The police were here yesterday and have begun an investigation," Abdullahi told journalists in Ilorin. "Yes, he was killed in front of his residence on Saturday night by gunmen. We are preparing for his janaza as I speak."

Aina’u Sarki, an acquaintance of the deceased, recounted being with Mr. Abubakar just 20 minutes before the attack. "Someone called me on the phone and told me he had been shot dead," she said.

MACBAN announced Mr. Abubakar’s death in a statement by its Secretary, Abdulazeez Mohammed. "With deep sorrow, we announce the tragic passing of our esteemed Chairman... Alhaji Idris Abubakar Sakaina, who was killed by unknown gunmen yesterday at his Okeose residence at about 10 pm prompt," the statement read. Mr. Abubakar is survived by two wives and six children. His funeral prayer was held in Zango, Ilorin, on Sunday.

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the killing. MACBAN’s National President, Alhaji Baba Ngelzarma, described Abubakar as a dedicated leader committed to transforming livestock production in Nigeria. Ngelzarma expressed deep concern over the rising cases of violence targeting MACBAN officials. "We call on the security agencies to thoroughly investigate this incessant killing of our leaders by criminals," Ngelzarma said.

He noted that MACBAN has lost over seven state and local government chairmen to unknown gunmen in the last two years. The association’s National Vice President, Alhaji Manir Lamido, has been missing since 2023 after disappearing while traveling between Katsina and Kaduna states.

Ngelzarma extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, the Kwara State Government, and MACBAN members nationwide, assuring that the association would work towards identifying those responsible for the "dastardly act of cowardice."