In a significant move to enhance security in Ondo State, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and local cattle rearers have entered into a partnership with the Amotekun Corps to combat the rising wave of kidnappings and criminal activities in the region. This collaboration signals a rare and proactive alliance between herders and local security outfits to address persistent security concerns.
The decision to work together was reached following a high-level security meeting in Akure, where representatives of MACBAN, cattle rearers, and the Ondo State Amotekun Corps discussed strategies to curb kidnappings, particularly those linked to criminal elements infiltrating herder communities.
Speaking on the development, the Commander of the Ondo Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, emphasized the importance of collective security efforts. “We recognize that not all herders are criminals. This partnership is aimed at identifying and isolating the bad elements who tarnish the image of law-abiding cattle rearers. With intelligence sharing and coordinated patrols, we will enhance security across the state,” Adeleye stated.
In a show of commitment, Miyetti Allah leaders have pledged full cooperation with security agencies to rid the region of criminal elements hiding among cattle rearers. Alhaji Bello Abdullahi, a regional leader of MACBAN, affirmed the group’s dedication to peace and security.
“We are farmers and herders, not criminals. Those who use our trade as a cover for criminal activities are not part of us. We will assist the Amotekun Corps in identifying suspicious individuals and preventing kidnappings in our communities,” he said.
Ondo State has witnessed a surge in kidnappings and violent attacks in recent years, with security agencies attributing many incidents to armed bandits operating under the guise of herders. The state government has repeatedly stressed the need for proactive measures, leading to the establishment of the Amotekun Corps as a regional security outfit in the Southwest.
Local residents and community leaders have welcomed the new partnership, expressing hope that it will bring lasting security improvements. Chief Olufemi Ogunlade, a traditional leader in Owo, stated, “This is a welcome development. Security is a shared responsibility, and with this collaboration, we expect a reduction in criminal activities.”
To operationalize the agreement, a joint security committee comprising Amotekun officers, Miyetti Allah representatives, and local vigilante groups will be formed. The committee will oversee intelligence gathering, patrol coordination, and rapid response to reported threats.
Additionally, the Ondo State government has pledged logistical support for enhanced security operations, including the provision of communication tools and vehicles for joint patrols.
The alliance between Miyetti Allah and Amotekun could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar security challenges. By fostering cooperation between local security outfits and herder communities, the initiative aims to dismantle the networks of criminal elements exploiting tensions between farmers and herders.
As implementation begins, all eyes will be on Ondo to see whether this partnership yields tangible results in reducing crime and restoring peace to affected communities.
