Miyetti Allah rejects US terrorist designation, seeks Federal Government’s intervention
“For the 42 years that we have operated in Nigeria, we have not been seen or linked to any terrorist organisation or individuals involved in criminal activities. It is surprising that the US government could take such a decision on what we consider an innocent and peace-loving organisation,” he added.
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has rejected its designation as a terrorist organisation by the United States Congress, describing the move as unfair and unacceptable.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, MACBAN President, Baba Othman, expressed surprise over the development, saying the association was unaware of the basis for the decision.
ALSO READ: US President Trump praises Remi Tinubu, she is Christian pastor in Nigeria’s largest church
“I read the report earlier in the day and was surprised to see such unfair treatment from US lawmakers. The description of a terrorist organisation is totally strange to us,” Othman said.
He maintained that MACBAN has operated legitimately in Nigeria for 42 years without involvement in criminal activities or sponsorship of terrorism. According to him, the association serves as an umbrella body for herders across the country, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation.
“For the 42 years that we have operated in Nigeria, we have not been seen or linked to any terrorist organisation or individuals involved in criminal activities. It is surprising that the US government could take such a decision on what we consider an innocent and peace-loving organisation,” he added.
Othman said the association would not confront the US government directly but would instead seek diplomatic intervention from the Federal Government.
“We cannot join issues with the US government. The best step for us is to approach the Federal Government, under whom we have been operating and paying necessary taxes over the years. It is the duty of the Federal Government to protect its citizens and their businesses from external attacks,” he said.
He warned that the designation could have severe consequences for the association’s reputation and operations.
The development followed a proposal by the US Congress on Wednesday recommending sanctions, including visa bans and asset freezes, against former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and members of MACBAN. The lawmakers cited alleged roles in the persecution and massacre of Christians in northern Nigeria.
According to reports, the US lawmakers are seeking to compel President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take stronger action against targeted killings of Christians in parts of the country.
They urged the US Department of State and the Department of the Treasury to impose targeted sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, including visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and entities found responsible for severe religious violations in Nigeria.
