POLICE SAY CONTROLLING ROAMING COWS IS NOT THEIR JOB

The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that controlling cattle roaming freely on roads and public spaces in Abuja is not part of its primary responsibility.

The Force spokesperson, CSP Ani Iniedu, made the clarification during a joint security spokespersons’ briefing while responding to concerns about the increasing presence of cows across parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

Iniedu explained that the responsibility for controlling animals, including cattle, lies with relevant environment authorities within the FCT.

He, however, said the police would intervene when roaming animals are involved in offences such as trespassing or causing damage to people’s property.

According to him, residents who suffer damage or other offences linked to roaming cattle can report such cases to the nearest police station, after which the command would investigate the complaint.

The spokesperson stressed that the police would not ordinarily go out in search of roaming cows because doing so falls outside their mandate.

The clarification comes amid concerns from Abuja residents over cattle frequently found on major roads and other public spaces, with some raising questions about traffic safety, property damage and the responsibilities of government agencies.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had previously said he had the capacity to address cow grazing in Abuja but declined to discuss the matter, describing it as a national security issue.

The police urged residents to formally report cases involving property damage, trespassing or other offences connected to roaming cattle so that appropriate action can be taken.