The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has sparked renewed national debate after reportedly describing anti-open grazing laws as “an assault on the Fulani people,” vowing to continue open grazing across Nigeria despite mounting restrictions.
In a controversial statement attributed to a spokesperson of the association, MACBAN expressed deep dissatisfaction with what it described as "targeted policies" against pastoralist communities, particularly Fulani herders.
“Anti-grazing is an assault on the Fulani people. We will continue to graze wherever we please,” the spokesperson reportedly said during a press briefing in Abuja over the weekend.
The statement has ignited swift reactions across the country, with civil society groups, lawmakers, and regional leaders calling for restraint, dialogue, and adherence to the rule of law.
Several states, particularly in the South-West and Middle Belt, have implemented anti-open grazing laws to curb farmer-herder clashes, protect farmlands, and enhance security. These laws have been backed by local communities and security agencies as a step toward modernizing animal husbandry.
In response, MACBAN argued that the laws threaten the livelihood and cultural heritage of nomadic herders, claiming that not enough support has been provided for the transition to ranching or modern alternatives.
Security experts have warned that the statement — if accurately quoted — could inflame tensions and undermine ongoing peace efforts between farming and herding communities.
The Federal Government has not officially responded to the statement as of press time, but sources within the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development hinted at upcoming dialogues with stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and promote sustainable grazing reforms.
As the debate continues, Nigerians await concrete steps from both federal and state authorities to strike a balance between security, agricultural development, and the rights of indigenous and nomadic groups.
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