The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that managing and controlling roaming cattle within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is not part of its responsibilities.
The clarification was made by the police spokesperson, CSP Ani Iniedu, during a joint briefing of security agencies on Tuesday.
Iniedu was responding to concerns over the increasing number of cows reportedly roaming freely on Abuja roads and in public spaces, raising concerns about traffic disruptions, public safety and possible damage to property.
According to him, the responsibility for controlling animals and addressing issues involving roaming cattle rests with the appropriate environmental authorities.
He explained that the police would only intervene when a cow is involved in an offence, such as trespassing or destroying someone’s property.
“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,” Iniedu said.
The police spokesperson further assured residents that any formal complaint involving an offence allegedly committed by roaming cattle would be investigated.
“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 added.
The police statement comes amid growing public concern over the presence of cattle on major roads and other busy areas of Abuja, where residents say the animals could pose risks to motorists, pedestrians and property.
Meanwhile, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had previously declined to speak extensively about the matter, describing it as an issue connected to national security.
Wike said he had the capacity to address cattle grazing in Abuja but would not discuss the matter publicly, directing journalists to the National Security Adviser and the Director-General of the Department of State Services.
“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 stated.
The differing positions have continued to attract attention as authorities face increasing calls to address the presence of roaming cattle across parts of Nigeria’s capital.
