The Kwara State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has refuted claims circulating online that its state Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Garba, was arrested over alleged involvement in kidnapping and terrorism.
In a statement personally signed by Alhaji Garba, he described the allegations as “false, baseless, and malicious,” attributing them to individuals seeking to tarnish his reputation.
Alhaji Garba clarified that he has never been arrested, invited for questioning, or investigated by any security agency in Kwara State or elsewhere in Nigeria concerning kidnapping, terrorism, or the sponsorship of criminal activities. He added that there is no official record, security report, or credible source supporting the claims made by the online platform, “Kwara Update.”
He noted that the post appears to be a deliberate attempt to damage his standing as a respected community leader who has consistently collaborated with government authorities, security agencies, and traditional institutions to promote peace and security across the state.
“Throughout my tenure, I have been actively involved in conflict resolution and community-building initiatives,” Alhaji Garba said. “The use of terms such as ‘terrorism,’ ‘Fulani bandits,’ and ‘admission to kidnapping’ without evidence is not only false but dangerous, as it fuels ethnic profiling, incites public resentment, and undermines trust between communities and law enforcement.”
The MACBAN chairman reaffirmed the association’s longstanding stance against criminal activities, including kidnapping and banditry, irrespective of the perpetrators.
He called on the publishers of the false post to immediately retract the statement and issue a public apology, warning that failure to comply would compel him to pursue all legal avenues to safeguard his integrity.
Alhaji Garba urged the public to disregard the online claims entirely and to always verify information through official and credible sources before sharing.
