Herders’ association denies links to violence, says proposed US sanctions could damage reputation and businesses

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has firmly rejected a proposed designation by the United States Congress branding it a terrorist organisation, describing the move as “unfair” and “strange.”

Reacting to reports of the proposal on Wednesday, MACBAN President, Baba Othman, said the association was shocked by the development and denied any involvement in criminal or terrorist activities.

Othman maintained that the group, which he said has operated in Nigeria for over four decades, has consistently functioned as a legitimate umbrella body representing herders across the country, regardless of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

“We were surprised to see such an unfair description from US lawmakers,” he said. “MACBAN has existed for 42 years as a lawful organisation. We have never been involved in crime nor sponsored any terrorist group. The allegation is totally strange to us.”

He stressed that the association has never been officially linked to violent activities, insisting that it remains a peace-driven body focused on protecting the interests of registered herders nationwide.

According to him, the terrorist designation, if sustained, could severely damage the association’s reputation and business interests.

While ruling out a direct confrontation with the US government, Othman said MACBAN would seek diplomatic protection through the Federal Government.

“We cannot join issues with the US government. Our next step is to approach the Federal Government, under which we have operated and paid all necessary taxes over the years,” he said. “It is the responsibility of the Federal Government to protect its citizens and lawful organisations from external actions that could harm them.”

The development follows a proposal by US lawmakers seeking sanctions — including visa bans and asset freezes — against former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and members of MACBAN over alleged roles in the persecution and killings of Christians in parts of northern Nigeria.

The lawmakers are reportedly pushing for the enforcement of targeted sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, urging the US Departments of State and Treasury to act against individuals and entities allegedly responsible for severe religious rights violations.

They also aim to pressure President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take stronger measures against targeted killings and religious violence in affected regions.

MACBAN, however, insists it has no connection to such acts and is seeking urgent diplomatic intervention to reverse the proposed designation.