The National Deputy Director General of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Gidado Siddiki, has urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of sacrifice, unity, and peaceful coexistence as Muslims celebrate Sallah across the country.
In a statement he signed and released from Awka, Anambra State, where he serves as the Sarkin Fulani, Siddiki extended warm Eid greetings to all Nigerians, particularly members of MACBAN.
“This sacred occasion symbolizes sacrifice, faith, and obedience. At this time of reflection and spiritual renewal, I urge all Nigerians to embrace the true essence of the festival—sacrifice and forgiveness. Let us put aside past grievances and trauma in the interest of peace and sustainable coexistence. Two wrongs never make a right; reconciliation and unity are essential for our collective progress.” He stated.
Siddiki specifically appealed to MACBAN members in the South East to continue fostering harmonious relationships with their host communities.
“I urge our members in the South East to maintain peaceful relations and avoid actions that may disrupt the long-standing peace we have enjoyed. Mutual respect and understanding must continue to guide our interactions.”
Addressing the pastoralist community directly, Siddiki emphasised the importance of communication and lawful conduct:
“All pastoralists should report grievances or traumatic experiences to their leaders, who are in the best position to escalate matters to the appropriate authorities. Resorting to self-help or violence is not the solution, justice is best pursued through due process and peaceful engagement.”
The MACBAN official also condemned what he described as unfair stigmatisation of herders, urging Nigerians to avoid blanket criminalisation of any group:
“It is dangerous and unjust to label pastoralists as criminals. Criminality knows no ethnicity. We must collectively reject such harmful stereotypes.”
Siddiki called on all levels of government—federal, state, and local- to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities of ensuring the safety and rights of all citizens, including pastoral communities:
“Security, protection, and inclusivity must be guaranteed for all Nigerians. No one should be left behind in the benefits of our democracy.”
Turning his focus to the 2025 general elections, Siddiki encouraged MACBAN members in Anambra and across the country to participate actively in the democratic process:
“I strongly urge our members in Anambra State to ensure they obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the November 2025 elections. Civic participation is vital for choosing leaders who will protect our rights and represent our interests.”
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the governments and people of South East states for their continued hospitality:
“We are deeply grateful to the governments and people of the South East for allowing us to peacefully carry out our legitimate cattle breeding and trading activities. We also call on the government to promote inclusive governance and ensure equitable distribution of democratic dividends across all regions, professions, and ethnic groups.”