Control of Roaming Cows in Abuja Not Our Responsibility – Police
The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that controlling or removing roaming cattle in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is not part of its statutory responsibilities, stressing that it would only intervene when the animals are linked to an offence.
The Force spokesperson, CSP Anietie Okokon Iniedu, made the clarification on Tuesday during a joint security spokespersons’ briefing in Abuja, in response to questions over the increasing presence of cattle on major roads and other public spaces across the capital.
Iniedu said the responsibility for regulating and controlling animals, including cattle, lies with the relevant environmental authorities, while the police would become involved only where the animals cause damage, trespass or are otherwise connected to an offence.
> “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.
> “If that is the case, it is reported to the nearest police station,” he said.
The police spokesperson further explained that the Force would investigate any formal complaint involving alleged offences 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,” Iniedu stated.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns over the continued presence of cattle roaming freely on major roads and other public spaces in Abuja, with residents and motorists raising concerns about traffic disruption, road safety and possible damage to property.
The issue has also attracted attention from the FCT administration.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had previously said he had the capacity to address cattle grazing in Abuja but declined to comment further, describing the matter as one involving 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.
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