Governor Bago blames peace deals for rise in Niger cattle rustling

DDM News

(DDM) — Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has raised alarm over the surge in cattle rustling within the state, blaming it on peace agreements initiated by some northern governors with bandits.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Minna on the implementation of the new Trade Animal Movement Security and Veterinary Inspection Permit, Bago described the situation as both “alarming” and “unacceptable.”

He warned that the ongoing theft and movement of livestock out of Niger into neighbouring states was escalating, and the federal government must intervene urgently.

According to DDM findings, the governor intends to formally escalate the matter to President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser.

He said the ripple effects of appeasement tactics used by other state governments were now spilling over into Niger, undermining the security of rural communities.

Governor Bago strongly condemned peace deals with armed groups, insisting such negotiations embolden criminals and weaken enforcement across state lines.

He also condemned the sale of bush-slaughtered meat and warned that going forward, only meat processed through certified abattoirs will be allowed in Niger State markets.

The governor directed that all livestock entering the state must undergo veterinary inspection and be vaccinated to safeguard public health.

He issued strict warnings to farmers and herders, cautioning against encroachment on restricted areas and farmlands.

He said, “No farmer should cultivate crops along the highway,” adding that “herders must not graze their animals on private farms.”

DDM reports that these pronouncements form part of a broader strategy to curb land conflicts and promote structured livestock management in the state.

Governor Bago cited the Animal Disease Control Act of 2022 as the legal basis for enforcing the new permit system.

He explained that Sections 18 and 19 of the Act empower states to monitor animal movement through veterinary inspection and health certification.

He clarified that the aim of the permit system is not to frustrate traders but to modernise livestock operations and track animal health along trade corridors.

He said the system would also help prevent the spread of disease, secure consumer health, and improve compliance with national veterinary regulations.

As part of longer-term plans, Bago revealed that the state has allocated 120,000 hectares of land for grazing reserves across Niger.

The reserves, he explained, would be equipped with water, pasture, and infrastructure to reduce nomadic movement and farmer-herder clashes.

He said partnerships with the federal ministries of agriculture and livestock, alongside development agencies, are underway to plant improved grass varieties for pasture.

Commissioner for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, Umar Sanda Rabe, described the policy as a welcome intervention to protect both animals and consumers.

He lamented the rampant slaughter of unexamined animals and warned it could lead to disease outbreaks and serious health risks.

The President of the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Alhaji Ilyasu Bulama, voiced concern over the impact of cattle rustling on business, but expressed optimism that the veterinary permit system would curb the threat.

Umar Abubakar Lapai, chairman of Miyetti Allah in Niger, also endorsed the governor’s initiative, saying it would reduce clashes and ensure healthier meat consumption.

Other representatives from the Butchers Association, cattle breeders, and Fulani leaders echoed their support for the government’s stance.

They praised the leadership of Governor Bago and pledged cooperation to ensure the success of the new livestock and veterinary policy.

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