In an interview, Baba Ngelzarma, the President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, disputes claims that the association is linked to acts of terrorism and violent crime. He stresses that the association, which was formed in 1986, was established as a non-tribal, non-violent entity to represent the interests of cattle breeders across the country. Ngelzarma clarifies that the organization aims to modernize the livestock sector and resolve conflicts between herders and farmers to promote peaceful coexistence.

Ngelzarma addresses recent concerns that have arisen following the actions of a U.S. congressman, Riley Moore, who has advocated for sanctions against the association due to its alleged links to violence. The Miyetti Allah group's leadership seeks to combat stereotypes by emphasizing their dedication to peace-building and education for members. He argues that mistaking the organization's work for terrorism is misguided and undermines their legitimate efforts to secure grazing lands and veterinary services crucial for cattle breeders.

Overall, Ngelzarma's statements reflect a broader context of intense scrutiny and challenges faced by pastoral communities in Nigeria, where rising tensions over land use have resulted in conflicts. The association’s ongoing efforts to clarify their mission and mitigate violence are critical to fostering understanding and addressing the socio-economic factors contributing to herder-farmer clashes in Nigeria.