The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has rejected its designation by the United States as a violator of religious freedom, describing the allegation as baseless and misleading.
US lawmakers have proposed visa restrictions and asset freezes against former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore over alleged religious freedom abuses in Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview with Punch, the National President of Miyetti Allah, Baba Ngelzarma, insisted that the association has never been involved in terrorism or any form of criminal activity.
“When this report first surfaced, we engaged extensively with the American embassy, visiting congressional delegations and other stakeholders. We responded verbally and submitted detailed documentation. We are not a terrorist organisation,” Ngelzarma said.
He added that the Nigerian government is fully aware of the association’s activities and legal status.
“The Nigerian government knows who we are and what we do. We have never been involved in terrorism, nor have we claimed responsibility for any terrorist act,” he stated.
According to Ngelzarma, the association, which was registered 42 years ago, represents cattle breeders across religious and ethnic lines and does not shield criminals.
He expressed surprise that the group continues to be associated with terrorism despite its engagements with international bodies.
“We represent peaceful herders engaged in legitimate livelihoods. We do not stand for criminality. It is surprising that these allegations persist despite our explanations,” he said.
Ngelzarma noted that Miyetti Allah has held discussions with several international organisations, including humanitarian and interfaith groups, to clarify its position.
“We have engaged organisations such as the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, interfaith bodies and other international agencies. At no point have we been a terrorist group,” he said.
He maintained that the association does not deserve the proposed sanctions.
“Do we deserve to be sanctioned? Absolutely not. We are not a criminal organisation. On what basis should we be sanctioned?” he asked.
Calling for diplomatic intervention, Ngelzarma urged the Federal Government to engage the US authorities.
“We are Nigerian citizens operating under Nigerian law. We are legally registered and deserve the protection of our government. Any engagement with the US should be handled government-to-government,” he said.
He further called on the Federal Government to address what he described as widespread misconceptions about Nigeria’s security challenges through sustained diplomatic dialogue with the United States.
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