The Chairman of Myetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Rivers State, Mohammed Tukur Abubakar, has warned members against grazing cattle on farmlands, citing increasing tensions between farmers and herders across the state.
In a statement on Tuesday, Abubakar expressed concern over the growing number of crop destruction cases allegedly caused by wandering cattle. He stressed that herders whose livestock stray into farmlands must take full responsibility by compensating affected farmers.
Amid ongoing reports of clashes in Tai and Eleme Local Government Areas, the MACBAN chairman announced plans to convene a stakeholders’ meeting this weekend aimed at addressing the recurring conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Abubakar also called on both herders and farmers to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, urging dialogue and lawful resolution of disputes.
He further distanced the association from individuals labeled as “herdsmen,” explaining that MACBAN represents cattle rearers, not armed groups. According to him, the term “herdsmen” has been tainted by its association with terrorism.
