Eid-el-Fitr: MACBAN Advises Herders to Avoid Weapons

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has warned its members to avoid carrying matches, knives, sticks, or any similar items during the Sallah holidays or at any public events.

Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, the President of MACBAN, gave this directive in a statement released on Thursday in Abuja to mark the end of Ramadan and the start of the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

He specifically urged the association’s members, especially the younger generation, to steer clear of any behavior that could spark a confrontation or lead to a misunderstanding with other citizens or law enforcement during this time.

“As we celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr (Sallah), MACBAN calls on all its members, pastoral communities, and indeed all Nigerians to mark the celebration in a peaceful, responsible, and law-abiding manner.

“The Sallah festival is a time for gratitude to Allah, reconciliation among communities, and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood.

”Members are specifically cautioned against carrying or displaying any objects that could be perceived as weapons, including matches, knives, sticks, or any similar items, during Sallah festivities or public gatherings.”

The leader of the pastoralist group emphasized that these festivities must be marked with a sense of dignity, self-control, and complete adherence to the law.

“The Association also wishes to draw the attention of its members to the onset of the rainy season across many parts of Nigeria.

“This period coincides with the beginning of widespread farming activities. MACBAN therefore strongly urges all pastoralists to exercise utmost caution in their herding practices.

“Herdsmen must ensure that animals are not grazed through cultivated or cropped farmlands as such actions often lead to avoidable disputes with farming communities, ” he noted.

Othman-Ngelzarma reminded the community that living peacefully alongside farmers and host neighbors is vital for national peace and the long-term success of livestock farming. He pointed out that respecting crops, following local rules, and using traditional ways to settle disagreements should be the standard for every herder.

“MACBAN also wishes to use this opportunity to clarify an important issue regarding the role and identity of the association.

“MACBAN is a professional livestock-producing organisation, dedicated to advancing pastoral livelihoods, improving livestock productivity, and contributing to Nigeria’s food security.

“Our focus remains the welfare of pastoral communities, the modernisation of livestock production, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence throughout the country, ” he clarified.

He made it clear that the group does not get involved in domestic or global political affairs, such as international conflicts or geopolitical drama happening elsewhere.

“Recent developments in some gulf states and other international regions are matters outside the mandate and interest of our organisation.

“Therefore, MACBAN does not support, endorse, or condone any statements, comments, or public positions made by individuals claiming to speak on behalf of the association regarding such international issues.

“Any member making such statements does so strictly in their personal capacity and not on behalf of MACBAN, ” Othman-Ngelzarma stated.

He concluded by saying that MACBAN is still fully focused on its main goals: promoting responsible farming, protecting the livelihoods of herders, and helping the Nigerian economy grow. He also reaffirmed their dedication to working with the government, farming groups, and civil society to boost food security.

“Equally important is our unwavering commitment to national unity, peace, and stability.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and pastoralists remain an integral part of the country’s social and economic fabric.

“We will continue to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all communities, ” Othman-Ngelzarma concluded.