The Nigeria Police Force has said controlling of roaming cows in the Federal Capital Territory is not within its mandate.
The force stressed that it will only intervene when the animals cause an offence.
Ani Iniedu, the police spokesperson, stated this at the joint security spokespersons’ briefing while responding to enquiries about the increasing presence of cows on roads and other public spaces in the capital city.
Iniedu explained that the responsibility for controlling animals, including cattle, rests with the relevant environment authorities, while the police would only act where the animals cause damage to property, trespass or become involved in other offences.
He said, ‘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.’
The police spokesperson added that the force would investigate any complaint formally lodged over offences allegedly committed by roaming cattle.
He added, ‘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.’