Controlling Roaming Cows in Abuja Is Not Police Responsibility, Spokesperson Says

The Nigeria Police Force says it is not responsible for rounding up cows roaming roads and public spaces in Abuja. Police spokesperson Ani Iniedu said officers would intervene only when cattle became involved in an offence.

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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.

Speaking at a joint briefing for security spokespersons on Tuesday, Iniedu said control of animals falls under the relevant environment ministry or department. Police action would begin if a cow damaged property, trespassed or committed another offence, he said.

“If that is the case, it is reported to the nearest police station,” Iniedu said. The force would then investigate any formally lodged complaint immediately, but would not go out simply to search for roaming cows.

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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.

The clarification comes as cattle continue to be seen freely on major roads and in other parts of Abuja, prompting concerns about public safety, traffic and possible damage to property. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has previously declined to discuss the matter in detail, saying it was linked 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 said.

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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.