The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) on Sunday denied any involvement in terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, or cattle rustling, stressing it has never condoned violence.
National President Alhaja Baba Ngelzarma, speaking in Abuja, called the U.S. ‘H.R. 7457 – Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026’ “misleading,” warning that linking MACBAN to terror could harm Nigeria’s economy and reputation.
“No court in Nigeria or abroad has convicted MACBAN of criminal or terrorist activity,” Ngelzarma said.
He highlighted the group’s 40-year history of supporting livestock development, pastoral welfare, and conflict mediation.
He urged the Senate, National Assembly, and Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs and Security agencies to engage U.S. authorities diplomatically and correct the record.
“Counterterrorism cooperation must not be based on false equivalences,” he said.
MACBAN also called on the media to avoid stereotype-driven reporting, emphasizing its commitment to national unity, lawful operations, and peaceful coexistence.
