From Godwin Agia, Jalingo
In a bid to combat cattle rustling in Taraba State, a total number of 222 rustled cattle, 58 sheep and rams were recovered and returned to their rightful owners in a ceremony held on Thursday in Jalingo.
The ceremony was performed by a high-powered committee comprising Dr. Aminu Jauro Hassan, Chairman of the Committee on Cattle and Sheep Recovery, the ALGON Chairman, and the Chairmen of Jalingo, Lau, Ardo-kola, and Karim-Lamido Local Government Areas.
According to Dr. Hassan, a total of 198 cows and 58 sheep and rams were released to their owners, while 24 cows remained unclaimed. The recovery process was carried out under severe examination and interrogation.
"I'm happy to announce to you that after interviewing, screening and above all coming with 52 groups to come and look at the cows whether it belongs to them or not we thereafter arrive that this cows belongs to two different groups of people," Dr. Hassan said.
Dr. Hassan explained that the first group owns 198 cows, while the second group owns 2 cows, but even that two is still a subject of contention. The Committee's efforts to ensure that the recovered cows were returned to their rightful owners demonstrate their commitment to justice and fairness.
Dr. Hassan also expressed his gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas for entrusting his committee with the responsibility of recovering the rustled cattle. The recovery process was a result of the state government's commitment to addressing the issue of cattle rustling.
"The Committee has decided to stepdown 22 cows and release 198 cows to the perceived owners that have after vigorous screening. We have unanimously agreed that the marks describe to the cows reach 90 percent," Dr. Hassan added.
The recovery of the rustled cattle is a welcome relief to the affected farmers and herders, who had suffered significant losses due to the activities of the rustlers. The return of their animals is expected to restore their livelihoods and boost the local economy.
The success of the recovery operation is a testament to the effectiveness of the committee's efforts and the cooperation of the relevant stakeholders. It also highlights the importance of collaboration between the government, local authorities, and the community in addressing the issue of cattle rustling.
Also speaking, Ya'u Ibrahim Barewa, the Taraba State chairman of Miyetti Allah, praised the committee's efforts, acknowledging their hard work in recovering the rustled cattle. His commendation adds to the growing recognition of the committee's achievements, particularly in their collaboration with stakeholders to address cattle rustling in the state.