By Ovat Abeng
South East leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria MACBAN, has rated the just concluded local government election in Anambra State, held on September 28th, 2024 as free and fair.
The Association made their position known in a statement signed and made available to Journalists in Awka on Thursday by the Deputy National Director of MACBAN, Allahaji Gidado Siddiki.
Siddiki who is also the Siriki Fulani Awka, congratulate the state governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo for ensuring a conducive environment before, during and after the electoral process.
According to him, “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate His Excellency, Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, his administration, and all those who emerged victorious in the recently concluded free and fair local government elections in Anambra State. I also join millions of Nigerians in celebrating the country’s 64th Independence anniversary.
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“Furthermore, I extend my gratitude to the members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association for their full participation in the elections. I encourage all our members across the South East region to follow the example set in Anambra by actively participating in the upcoming local government elections in their respective states.
“It is essential for our members to engage in the day-to-day activities of their host communities. Building trust and confidence comes from close interaction, and through this, we can strengthen our relationships with our hosts.
“I also implore the newly elected local government chairmen to always accommodate non-indigenes, such as members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, in their governance. It is crucial to foster inclusivity and ensure that all residents, regardless of origin, are given the opportunity to contribute to the development of their local communities.
“I urge all members to avoid any actions that could jeopardize the peace we currently enjoy with our host communities. I appeal to our hosts to continue their hospitality, allowing us to conduct our legitimate business of cattle breeding and sales in the South East.
“In these challenging times of economic hardship, inflation, and currency devaluation, I call on political, religious, and traditional leaders to refrain from spreading hate or divisive messages. Instead, they should focus on fostering confidence and unity among Nigerians, as their words carry significant weight and influence,” the statement concluded.