Washington’s rush to sanction Miyetti Allah may worsen the conflict
Ifeanyichukwu Charles Nweke
Following President Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern”, American Lawmakers introduced a resolution seeking sanctions against the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) as part of this effort. Drawing on insights from my research, I argue in this Medium article that this move is not only ill-informed but also counterproductive. Simply put, Miyetti Allah is part of the security apparatus in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest. Sanctioning the group, as this resolution seeks to do, may create vacuums and worsen the conflict. Instead, the ongoing spotlight on Nigerian insecurity presents an opportunity to strengthen partnerships between Nigerian and American authorities and groups like Miyetti Allah, thereby leading to more effective and sustainable solutions.
With Miyetti Allah Chiefs in Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria. September 2024.
With Miyetti Allah Chiefs in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. September 2024.
With Seriki Mohammed, Chairman of Miyetti Allah Southwest Nigeria.