The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed shock over reports that some United States lawmakers are considering placing sanctions on the group.
The association said it is peaceful and law-abiding and should not be labeled a terrorist organisation.
Speaking in an interview, the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, said the group was surprised by the move. He explained that MACBAN was formed 42 years ago as a non-violent and non-religious association.
According to him, the association is a trade group created to protect the interests of cattle breeders across Nigeria, no matter their religion or ethnic background.
Ngelzarma said there is no reason for the US Congress to consider designating the association as a terrorist organisation. He added that members of MACBAN had earlier engaged with officials at the US Embassy in Nigeria.
He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to protect members of the association from what he described as an existential threat.
The association insisted that it has no links to criminal activities and remains committed to peace and lawful operations in the country.
