Table of Contents
- Criticism of US Sanctions
- Statement from Miyetti Allah
- Potential Consequences of Sanctions
- Call for Cooperation
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has condemned a recent initiative by United States lawmakers to impose sanctions on the organization for purported violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.
This development follows the US House of Representatives urging the Departments of State and Treasury to implement targeted sanctions against several Nigerian organizations, including the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.
Previously, US President Donald Trump had classified Nigeria as a country of particular concern due to alleged persecution of Christians.
In an interview with DAILY POST in Kano, Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, a state leader of Miyetti Allah, expressed that the United States should refrain from acting on incomplete information or half-truths.
Bakoji, who also serves as the Country Director of the International Human Rights Commission – Relief Funds Trust (IHRC-RFT), stated that it would be unjust to hold an entire organization accountable for the actions of a few individuals.
“It is perilous to take such actions without thorough investigation,” he cautioned. “If an individual violates the law, that person should be investigated and penalized, not the entire group.”
He further noted that blanket sanctions could escalate tensions and misunderstandings within the Fulani community, potentially exacerbating insecurity.
Warnings about worsening crises were reiterated by Bakoji
Bakoji, a retired army captain, emphasized that foreign governments should collaborate with Nigeria on security issues rather than resorting to unilateral measures.
“When countries like America impose sanctions on groups without substantial evidence, it fosters the perception that the Fulani ethnic group is being unfairly targeted,” he remarked.
He cautioned that such actions could heighten tensions in regions already grappling with conflicts between farmers and herders.
Bakoji asserted that the mission of Miyetti Allah is to promote peace and modern livestock practices among its members, rather than inciting violence.
“These organizations were established to foster peace and understanding between farmers and herders,” he stated.
“Our leaders work diligently to ensure that members comply with the law and adopt improved methods of livestock management.”
He urged the US government to depend on verified information and collaborate with Nigerian authorities to identify wrongdoers, rather than making decisions based on insufficient data that could worsen the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association?
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) is an organization that advocates for the rights and interests of cattle breeders in Nigeria, promoting peace and modern livestock practices.
What are the allegations against Miyetti Allah?
Miyetti Allah has been criticized for alleged violations of religious freedom and involvement in conflicts between farmers and herders, which the organization denies, stating its mission is to promote peace.
What was the response of Miyetti Allah to the proposed US sanctions?
Miyetti Allah has condemned the proposed sanctions, arguing that they are based on incomplete investigations and could lead to increased tensions within the Fulani community.
