The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, has cautioned herders against night grazing and moving cattle within city centres, warning that such practices pose risks to public safety and can trigger avoidable conflicts.
The warning was given on Monday during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani Socio-Cultural Association, FCT Chapter, led by its North-Central Zonal Chairman, Alhaji Gidado Idris Bebeji, at the FCT Police Command Headquarters in Garki, Abuja.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the association raised concerns over challenges facing its members, including clashes with farmers, attacks by kidnappers and cattle rustlers, conflicts with vigilante groups, cattle poisoning, and the encroachment of traditional grazing routes by expanding residential and commercial developments.
Responding, CP Sanusi assured the delegation that matters within the jurisdiction of the FCT Police Command would be addressed promptly and in accordance with the law, while issues outside the Command’s mandate would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.
The police commissioner pledged to engage farmers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence between herders and farming communities.
He expressed concern over the use of underage children for cattle grazing and warned against grazing along major roads, within towns, and in the city centre. He advised herders to restrict grazing activities to designated outskirts and avoid farmlands to prevent disputes and destruction of crops.
CP Sanusi also urged members of the association not to take the law into their own hands when disputes arise. He warned against harbouring criminal elements and encouraged the prompt reporting of suspicious persons and activities to security agencies.
The commissioner further called for stronger collaboration between herders and security agencies to enhance peace and security across the Federal Capital Territory.
In their response, the leaders of the association appreciated the police commissioner for granting them audience and pledged to work closely with the Command in promoting peace and security throughout the FCT.
