The President, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Baba Othman Ngelzarma who made this known over the weekend while addressing the newly elected MACBAN executives in Jalingo, Taraba State, alleged that a cartel of security, judicial officials and some renegade pastoralist leaders are feeding fat on the wealth of rural pastoralists.
The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed concern over the high number of pastoralist youths languishing in prisons nationwide, awaiting trial on what they deem false charges, describing the situation as totally unacceptable.
The President, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Baba Othman Ngelzarma who made this known over the weekend while addressing the newly elected MACBAN executives in Jalingo, Taraba State, alleged that a cartel of security, judicial officials and some renegade pastoralist leaders are feeding fat on the wealth of rural pastoralists.
Ngelzarma expressed regret that the actions of a few rogue individuals have sullied the reputation of the Fulani people, and he urged the new leadership to take steps to root out those with criminal inclinations from their ranks.
The association president, accompanied by national officers, issued a stern warning to newly elected state executives of the association, cautioning them against engaging in extortion and touting, and threatening suspension for non-compliance.
Additionally, the association is establishing a three-member legal team in each state to address instances of extortion and touting by security personnel, judicial officers, and corrupt leaders within the association, who are complicit in this wrongdoing.
"The leadership is about service and with heightened insecurity occasioned by gross human rights abuse, all hands must be on deck to ensure equity , justice and fair play to all Nigerians," according to the President
He urged all pastoralists to uphold the concept of Pullaku for peace and security to reign. He emphasised the need to shed all negativity in order to restore their dignity and pride, adding that virtues of Pullaku code of conduct represent peace, respect, shyness and unity, which are integral for the survival of society.
According to the president, MACBAN represents peaceful and it will not tolerate bad eggs in its midst.
He urged both the leadership and the followship to support the government and security agencies in the state, and also extend their hands of fellowship to all farmers’ associations for the purpose of dialogue to mitigate conflict.