The Fulani Christian Association of Nigeria (FCAN) has firmly rejected any connection with two prominent Fulani socio-cultural groups recently mentioned in discussions about security concerns in Nigeria.
Speaking during a gathering in Miango community of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, the association said it should not be linked to the activities or positions of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore or the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
The clarification followed reports that the United States Congress recently classified the two organisations as terrorist groups.
The clarification followed reports that the United States Congress recently classified the two organisations as terrorist groups.
Chairman of FCAN, Rev. Buba Aliyu, spoke during a symposium attended by Christian leaders and representatives of the International Christian Concern. The meeting held in Miango, a community within Bassa Local Government Area that has witnessed repeated attacks in recent years.
Rev. Aliyu said Fulani Christians across Nigeria do not belong to Miyetti Allah groups and should not be grouped with them simply because of shared ethnic identity.
“The Fulani Christian Association of Nigeria is a fellowship of Fulani believers in Christ. We are not part of Miyetti Allah or MACBAN and we do not support violence. Our faith teaches us peace and respect for human life,” Rev. Aliyu said.
According to him, the association represents a distinct community within the larger Fulani ethnic group. He stressed that the group focuses mainly on spiritual fellowship and support for Fulani individuals who have embraced Christianity.
He explained that FCAN members had long distanced themselves from organisations they believe openly defend armed herdsmen during attacks on rural communities.
Rev. Aliyu said such positions often deepen suspicion against all Fulani people. He warned that criminal elements hiding behind ethnic identity have damaged the image of ordinary Fulani citizens who live peacefully across the country.
He also criticised narratives that often describe attacks as mere clashes between farmers and herders. According to him, many of the incidents go beyond disputes over grazing land.
The cleric added that communities affected by violence have suffered displacement, loss of property and the occupation of ancestral lands by armed groups.
Rev. Aliyu further revealed that his advocacy among Fulani Christians has exposed him to threats.
“On several occasions, I have received messages telling me that I am a walking corpse and that my time is finished.
“But by the help of God, I am still alive and continuing the work,” he added.
He urged Nigerians not to judge an entire ethnic group based on the actions of criminal gangs.
“Among the Fulani people, there are many who live peacefully. Those involved in crimes do not represent the entire community,” he emphasized.
Aliyu also called on security agencies and the international community to clearly separate peaceful citizens from armed militants when discussing the security crisis in parts of northern and central Nigeria.