A 41-year-old herder, Musa Lawal, reportedly collapsed after 42 of his cows died under mysterious circumstances in Koroko community, Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when two of Lawal’s sons took the cattle out to graze. According to the FCT Treasurer of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Yahuza Ibrahim, the animals were later found dead at different locations in the bush.
Ibrahim said preliminary findings suggest the cows may have grazed on grass contaminated with chemicals, although the exact cause of the deaths is yet to be confirmed.
He explained that after receiving the report, he visited the scene on the directive of the MACBAN chairman, where it was confirmed that 42 cows had died. Lawal reportedly rushed to the location after learning about the incident but collapsed from the shock of the massive loss.
The herder was taken to the General Hospital in Kwali, where he received treatment before being discharged the following day after recovering.
Chairman of the Kwali Area Council, Nuhu Daniel Kwali, later visited the affected family alongside Fulani community leaders to sympathise with them.
Confirming the incident, the council chairman described the development as shocking and unfortunate. He said security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant authorities, had been directed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the cattle.
He added that the council was also considering ways to support the affected herder and prevent any tension between farmers and herders in the community while the investigation continues.
About The Author
