Miyetti Allah seeks dialogue with Oyo govt over ‘indiscriminate’ arrest of members

Fulani herders under the aegis of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani Socio-Cultural Association have sought dialogue rather than resorting to violence with the Oyo state government over alleged indiscriminate arrests of its members and their cattle in some parts of the state.

Members of the association had in a passionate appeal to Governor Seyi Makinde lamented that their means of livelihood are being threatened in the state.

The group led by Alhaji Sanni Muhammed at a press conference in Akinyele on Tuesday said their efforts to meet with the leadership of Oyo State Ruke of Law have always proved abortive.

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“We have tried on several occasions to intimate leadership of OYRLEA of our challenges but to no success that is why we are seeking the timely intervention of our listening governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

“We are hoping that our request will be met in the next two weeks. We abhor violence. We are men and women of violence. We ply our trade in Oyo. We are citizens of Oyo State.

“Our cattle ranches are being raided frequently, often in the early hours of the morning. There have been repeated instances of individuals claiming to be agents of the state government who demand cash transfers from our members daily under unclear circumstances.

“The enforcement of the new laws appears, in many cases, to be accompanied by acts that can only be described as discriminatory and unjust, creating fear and tension among our people.

“We believe firmly that no group of citizens should be subjected to discrimination, injustice, or jungle justice.

“While we fully respect the authority of the Oyo State Government to make laws, we appeal that such laws be implemented in a fair, transparent, and humán manner, without jeopardizing the livelihood of an entire community.

“Your Excellency, who are we to challenge the government? We are only appealing as loyal citizens for understanding, justice, and protection. We urge Your Excellency to direct relevant agencies to investigate the alleged illegal cash demand and harassment of our members

“We call for the review of the enforcement approach of the anti-cattle rearing law to ensure it does not amount to targeted discrimination.

“We want you to engage in dialogue with our leadership to find peaceful, sustainable solutions that safeguard both public interest and the livelihood of our members.

“We pledge to remain lawful, cooperative, and loyal to your administration and the laws of Oyo State. We trust that in your wisdom and compassion, you will give urgent attention to this clarion call before the situation escalates.

“We, the members of Miyetti Allah Kauta Hore, Oyo State Chapter, a duly registered Fulani social-cultural association committed to the well-being of our members and the progress of Oyo State, urge the Governor with utmost humility and respect to seek your urgent intervention in matters affecting our livelihood, dignity, and peaceful coexistence

“We are proud to be law-abiding, peace-loving, and responsible citizens who have over the years contributed to the economy and food supply of our dear state.

“We have always held you in high esteem as a listening leader among the governors for the masses. We are predominantly cattle rearers by heritage, a trade passed down for generations, in most cases the only means of livelihood known to our members, we have consistently carried out our activities lawfully and in a manner that respects the peace and unity of the state.”

Also, the Southwest Women Leader of the Association, Hajia Aminat Idris, and chairman of the National Association of Cattle Dealers Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, Alhaji Dauda Adebayo said as Nigerian and law-abiding citizens of the state, they also contributed to the socio-economic development of the state.