In a significant victory against cattle rustling, the Taraba State Cattle and Livestock Recovery Committee has successfully recovered 222 stolen cows from various locations, including Plateau and Nasarawa States. Through a rigorous verification process, the committee has already returned 198 cows to their rightful owners, marking a major step forward in the fight against livestock theft and promoting peace in the region.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Taraba State Government in collaboration with security agencies, is a testament to the power of coordinated efforts in tackling crime and restoring livelihoods. Here’s the full story.
The Mission to Combat Cattle Rustling
Cattle rustling has long been a source of conflict and economic loss in Taraba State and neighboring regions. To address this, the Taraba State Government established the Cattle and Livestock Recovery Committee, tasked with recovering stolen livestock and ensuring their safe return to owners.
The committee, led by Aminu Hassan, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Taraba, has been working closely with security agencies to track down and recover stolen animals.
How the Recovery Process Works
The committee’s operations involve:
Tracking Stolen Livestock: Collaborating with security agencies to locate and recover stolen cows and sheep from Taraba, Plateau, and Nasarawa States.
Verification: Owners are required to provide proof of ownership to claim their livestock.
Returning Animals: Once verified, the animals are returned to their rightful owners.
So far, 198 cows have been successfully identified and returned to their owners, while 24 cows and 59 sheep remain unclaimed.
A Boost for Peace and Security
The recovery initiative is more than just about returning stolen livestock—it’s about fostering peace and preventing conflicts. Cattle rustling often leads to violent clashes between herders and farmers, making this effort crucial for maintaining harmony in the region.
Ya’u Ibrahim, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Taraba, praised the government’s intervention, calling it a “crucial step in preventing unnecessary conflicts and fostering peaceful coexistence.”
Challenges and Next Steps
While the committee has made significant progress, challenges remain. Some recovered animals are yet to be claimed, and the committee is urging individuals with missing livestock to come forward with proof of ownership.
Aminu Hassan emphasized the importance of community cooperation, stating, “We urge anyone with missing cattle or livestock to come forward if they can prove ownership. Our goal is to reunite every recovered animal with its rightful owner.”
Why This Matters
Livestock is a vital source of livelihood for many families in Taraba and neighboring states. The recovery of stolen animals not only restores economic stability but also builds trust between communities and the government.
This initiative also highlights the effectiveness of collaboration between state governments, security agencies, and local communities in addressing complex issues like cattle rustling.
What’s Next for the Committee?
The Taraba State Cattle and Livestock Recovery Committee plans to expand its operations, targeting more areas affected by cattle rustling. With continued support from security agencies and the community, the committee aims to further reduce livestock theft and promote lasting peace in the region.