Is Abuja the new Federal "Cattle" Territory?

Federal "Cattle" Territory? You may ask. Well, with the movement of cattle within virtually all parts of the Abuja, residents seem to have derived a new meaning for the acronym "FCT."

The free movement of cattle within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has become a source of concern to most residents of the city. More worrisome is a situation whereby these animals are allowed into the busy Central Business District; a location for major government offices.

"The way these Fulani herdsmen carry their cows to virtually all parts of the city is becoming alarming. Cattle in the busy central area? The most annoying is that no one is regulating their movement. Very soon, they will enter National Assembly and Aso Villa,"Ayoola Daniels, an Abuja resident told Pulse.

Apart from the environmental pollution caused by body waste, these animals pose a threat to the security of lives of the residents as they are usually accompanied by young boys below the age of eighteen (18).

ALSO READ: In Delta: Villagers eject Fulani herdsmen from Ughelli community

On Thursday, July 14, 2016, a "mad" cow reportedly obstructed movement of vehicles at the intersection of Nnamdi Azikwe Airport Road in Abuja.

According to Sahara Reporters, the cow was said to have abandoned the sidewalk and jumped into the middle of the highway causing agitation among motorists.

Not forgetting various incidents of Fulani herdsmen attack in some communities in Benue, Niger, Kogi, Delta and many others.

ALSO READ: Pulse Opinion: Fulani herdsmen attack and looming food crisis in Nigeria

"These Fulani people don't forgive or forget," Anthony Osagie, a policeman said. "The day someone steals or kills their cow, that is all. They will start attacking and killing people in their numbers. We certainly don't pray for any of such things to happen," he added.

The federal government should provide grazing areas for the cattle, restrict their movement and enforce strict penalties for defaulters. This will not only ensure the security of lives and properties of residents but will also help to maintain Abuja's prestigious title as Nigeria's capital city.