The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has cautioned its members against carrying matches, knives, sticks, or any similar objects during Sallah festivities or public gatherings.

Its president, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, issued the warning in a statement to mark the completion of Ramadan and the Eid-el-Fitr celebration on Thursday.

Mr Othman-Ngelzarma also advised all members of the association, particularly youths, to avoid actions that may lead to confrontation or misunderstanding with fellow citizens or security agencies during the period.

“As we celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr (Sallah), MACBAN calls on all its members, pastoral communities, and indeed all Nigerians to mark the celebration in a peaceful, responsible, and law-abiding manner.

”Members are specifically cautioned against carrying or displaying any objects that could be perceived as weapons, including matches, knives, sticks, or any similar items, during Sallah festivities or public gatherings,” Mr Othman-Ngelzarma said.

The pastoralist leader insisted that sallah celebrations must be conducted with dignity, restraint, and full respect for the laws of the land.

He also urged members to exercise caution in their herding practices as the rainy season sets in.

“Herdsmen must ensure that animals are not grazed through cultivated or cropped farmlands, as such actions often lead to avoidable disputes with farming communities,” he said.

Mr Othman-Ngelzarma reminded pastoralists that peaceful coexistence with farmers and host communities remains essential to national harmony and to the sustainability of livestock production.

“MACBAN also wishes to use this opportunity to clarify an important issue regarding the role and identity of the association.

“MACBAN is a professional livestock-producing organisation, dedicated to advancing pastoral livelihoods, improving livestock productivity, and contributing to Nigeria’s food security,” he said.

He said the association was not involved in domestic or international political matters, including ongoing conflicts or geopolitical tensions elsewhere.

“Recent developments in some Gulf states and other international regions are matters outside the mandate and interest of our organisation.

“Therefore, MACBAN does not support, endorse, or condone any statements, comments, or public positions made by individuals claiming to speak on behalf of the association regarding such international issues.

“Any member making such statements does so strictly in their personal capacity and not on behalf of MACBAN,” said Mr Othman-Ngelzarma

He said MACBAN remains committed to its core mandate of promoting responsible livestock production, protecting pastoral livelihoods, and contributing positively to the Nigerian economy.

“We will continue to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all communities,” Mr Othman-Ngelzarma said.

(NAN)