The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to enforce ban on roaming cattle on major roads and public spaces within the nation’s capital, Abuja.
HURIWA made the appeal in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, expressing concern over the increasing presence of cattle on highways and busy traffic corridors in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, warning that the development poses safety and environmental risks.
It said the nation’s capital, should reflect orderliness, proper urban management and strict compliance with regulations guiding public safety and sanitation.
The association also raised concerns over insecurity in the FCT, especially incidents linked to suspected “one-chance” robbery syndicates, urging security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and coordinated operations to safeguard residents and commuters.
According to the statement, residents of the capital city deserve improved security and stronger law enforcement measures to curb criminal activities.
HURIWA therefore called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services, DSS, to collaborate closely with other security agencies in dismantling criminal networks operating within Abuja and its environs.
The association further urged the FCT Administration to ensure strict implementation of laws prohibiting open grazing and obstruction of highways within the city.
It also called for immediate removal of cattle obstructing public roads and highways, improved synergy among security agencies in tackling criminality, and greater transparency regarding the arrest and prosecution of suspects linked to “one-chance” operations.
