FCT Roaming Cattle Control: Police Declare It's Not Their Core Duty

The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that the responsibility for managing roaming cattle within the Federal Capital Territory does not fall under its primary mandate. According to police spokesperson Ani Iniedu, the Force’s involvement would only be necessary when such animals are directly implicated in an offense.

Speaking at a joint security spokespersons’ briefing on Tuesday, Iniedu addressed concerns regarding the increasing presence of cows freely traversing roads and public areas across Abuja. He elaborated that environmental authorities are primarily tasked with animal control, including cattle. The police, however, would step in if the animals cause property damage, trespass, or are involved in other actionable offenses.

“The responsibility for the control of animals is the Ministry or Department of the Environment. Where we come in is if the cow has committed an offence or the cow is involved in the destruction of your property or trespassing your property,” Iniedu stated. He added, “If that is the case, it is reported to the nearest police station.”

Iniedu further assured that the police would promptly investigate any formal complaint lodged concerning offenses allegedly committed by roaming cattle. “We will commence investigation immediately. That is if a complaint was made. If it is going out to look for cows, it is not one of our responsibilities,” he reiterated.

This clarification comes amidst growing public apprehension over the continuous sighting of cattle on major Abuja roads and other public spaces, leading to worries about public safety, traffic disruptions, and potential property damage. Previously, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had declined to comment extensively on the matter, stating he possessed the capability to address cow grazing in Abuja but would not discuss it publicly due to its links to national security. “I have the capacity to deal with cow grazing in Abuja, but I won’t talk about it because it’s national security. Go to the NSA and the DSS DG. You know why I can’t touch it,” Wike had said.