Miyetti Allah President Idris Abubakar, Leaders Detained Over Alleged Bandit Kidnapping Sponsorship

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The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has been thrust back into the national spotlight after the arrest of three senior leaders of its Kwara State chapter, including its president, Idris Abubakar, over alleged involvement in sponsoring banditry and kidnapping operations across the state.

Security sources confirmed that the arrests followed intensified military pressure on criminal enclaves in Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas, involving coordinated ground operations that reportedly led to the recovery of ransom proceeds linked to recent abductions. Investigators say the suspects—described as elderly Fulani men aged over 60—are alleged to have provided logistical support, facilitated abductions, and channeled funds to armed groups operating along the Kwara–Niger axis. Preliminary findings indicate the suspects have made statements to investigators, though authorities stress that inquiries are ongoing.

Multiple reports from national outlets, including Sahara Reporters, The Nation, Daily Post, and Gazette NGR, describe the suspects as influential community figures accused of collaborating with criminal networks that have terrorized rural communities. A security source familiar with the probe said the case underscores the risks of criminal infiltration within community structures meant to promote peace.

The arrests have reignited controversy due to their links with a federal security initiative launched in late 2025. In December, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), led by NSA Nuhu Ribadu, reportedly engaged some Miyetti Allah members in a Joint Task Force–style arrangement with local vigilantes to counter escalating attacks in parts of Kwara, particularly Ifelodun LGA. Allegations later surfaced that some participants absconded with issued weapons, raising concerns about oversight.

Earlier in the month, soldiers arrested three-armed men who reportedly claimed they received weapons through official channels. The Kwara State Government initially denied involvement, later acknowledged the use of a state-branded vehicle, and subsequently clarified that the suspects were Miyetti Allah members tied to the ONSA-backed arrangement. ONSA officials defended the initiative, citing the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022, and emphasized that weapons were issued to vetted vigilantes, not socio-cultural groups.

Miyetti Allah has strongly denied the latest allegations. Some faction leaders have described the claims as fabricated and aimed at tarnishing the association’s image, insisting MACBAN is a peaceful cattle-breeding organization with no official security role or links to terrorism. However, the arrests have revived longstanding public scrutiny over recurring allegations connecting elements within the group to banditry.

Public reaction has been swift and intense, with #MiyettiAllah trending across social media platforms. While many Nigerians are demanding accountability and transparency, others express skepticism about whether the case will result in successful prosecutions, citing past experiences. Questions have also been raised about the continued engagement of non-state actors in counter-banditry efforts.

As of press time, the Kwara State Police Command had not issued a formal statement. Security agencies say investigations are ongoing and additional arrests are possible as authorities work to unravel the full scope of the alleged network.

The unfolding case highlights the complex intersection of community groups, security policy, and counter-terrorism strategies in Nigeria’s North-Central region. Updates are expected from official security channels and reputable news organizations in the coming days.