MACBAN alleges discrimination on members in Anambra communities

Asks Soludo’s intervention, as they pledge support, loyalty to host communities

The leader of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), in the South East, Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, has alleged that his members are facing discrimination and denied accommodation in many communities across Anambra State.

Siddiki stated this while fielding questions from journalists, yesterday, shortly after attending Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s first anniversary celebration in office, in Awka, the state capital, lamenting that his members are no longer allowed to settle in some areas in the state.

According to him, people in Anaku, Umueje, Omor, Igbakwu, Omasi, Umumbo, Umuerum and Ifite-Ogwari communities have rejected them, adding that the same treatment has been received from natives of Aguleri and Mkpu Nado-otu Aguleri communities in Anambra East Council of the state.

While expressing concern on the development, Siddiki noted that both his members and host communities have always enjoyed cordial relationship for some time. He wondered why and how the treatment meted out to them has taken such dimension.

Siddiki said: “Our interest in these areas are purely economic. No herder is interested in contesting the ownership of land with members of their host communities across the state.”

“As cattle breeders, we only ask for a secure environment to do our grazing business. We are ready to support our host communities in any capacity they want us to. We are willing to assist to make life meaningful for everyone and to sustain the already peaceful co-existence in the area.

“We call on the Soludo to urgently intervene on the situation for the sake of peace and oneness.”