Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Umar Audu
Published on 2024-02-26 13:11:42
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has reported that more than 15,000 pastoralists have lost their lives in the past decade due to conflicts between farmers and herders, as well as attacks by bandits and kidnappings. At a National Executive Council meeting in Paiko, Niger State, the national president of the association, Baba Othman Ngalzarma, shared this disturbing statistic. Additionally, he revealed that four million cattle belonging to pastoralists have been lost to cattle rustling in various parts of the country during the same period.
Mr. Ngalzarma also highlighted the unfair stereotyping of Fulani pastoralists as criminals by many Nigerians, despite their victimhood in these violent situations. He emphasized that pastoralists are often on the receiving end of crises such as kidnapping, cattle rustling, farmer-herder conflicts, and banditry. While acknowledging the presence of criminals within the pastoralist community, he stressed that not all Fulani people are involved in criminal activities.
One particular grievance raised by MACBAN was the lack of compensation for victims and their families following a military drone strike on pastoralists in Nasarawa State. Mr. Ngalzarma urged the federal government to provide assistance to these families who have suffered losses due to such incidents.
Moreover, MACBAN expressed concerns about the reported killing and looting of cows during military operations, calling attention to the alarming frequency of such incidents. The association emphasized its commitment to identifying and addressing any criminal behavior within the pastoralist community. They are also actively educating their members about the dangers of illicit drug use and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
In conclusion, MACBAN is calling for greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by pastoralists in Nigeria. They are advocating for fair treatment and support for victims of violence and displacement within their community. By addressing these issues and working collaboratively with government authorities, MACBAN aims to promote peaceful coexistence and ensure the protection of pastoralists and their livestock.
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