MACBAN Advocates Collaboration with Government for Peace

• MACBAN urges Fulanis to collaborate with authorities to combat criminal activities, emphasizing the importance of lasting peace and security
• Ngelzarma highlights insecurity and socio-economic challenges pastoral communities face, stressing the need for collective action and integration efforts

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has urged Fulanis across the country to collaborate with governments and security agencies to foster lasting peace and combat kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities.

Baba Othman Ngelzarma, the National President of MACBAN, made this plea at a two-day National Fulbe Summit in Abuja, themed “Finding Lasting Solution To The Security And Socio-Economic Challenges Among Pastoral Communities In Nigeria.”

Ngelzarma highlighted the longstanding insecurity and socio-economic marginalization faced by pastoral communities, which not only jeopardize their means of livelihood but also threaten the nation’s stability and unity.

He emphasized the importance of collective action within the Fulani community to address restiveness, drug abuse, arms proliferation, and cultural vices among youth, urging guidance towards integration through education and social interactions.

Former Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isah Yuguda, who also serves as the National President of Tabital Fulaaku, expressed concern over the erosion of the traditional virtuous lifestyle of Fulanis due to various factors affecting their way of life.

Yuguda noted that Fulanis have been unfairly profiled as criminals due to the actions of a few, stressing the need for self-reflection and proactive measures to address moral decay within their communities.

He called on the federal government to comprehensively address the root causes of insecurity, including kidnapping and banditry, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration between the government and Fulani leadership to find viable solutions.

Dr. Salim Musa Umar, the President-General of Fulbe Global Development and Rights Initiative (FGDRI), criticized the exclusion of Fulanis in the formation of state security outfits in Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto, deeming it counterproductive to achieving lasting peace.

Dr. Umar advocated for fair representation and participation of Fulanis in addressing insecurity, particularly in states heavily affected by criminal activities. He urged unity within the Fulani community to confront criminal elements tarnishing their reputation and livelihoods.