The Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has raised alarm over the alleged arming of members of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to operate in Yoruba-speaking areas of Kwara and parts of Kogi States amid rising kidnapping and banditry. The group described the move as dangerous and inexplicable, especially as local vigilantes and hunters were reportedly sidelined and disarmed.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Olusola Badero, and released by Home Director, Princess Balogun, the union urged President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to explain why ammunition was allegedly given to Miyetti Allah. “Why is the Federal Government… allegedly giving ammunition to Miyetti Allah… while… sidelining local vigilantes and hunters?” the group asked.
The organisation cited incidents in Edo and Kwara involving suspects allegedly linked to Miyetti Allah and security vehicles or weapons traced to government offices. It warned that arming non-state actors could fuel instability and called for transparency. “If this issue is not properly addressed… this is a recipe for unrest and national instability,” the union warned, urging urgent presidential intervention.