The Kwara State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the growing issue of cattle, horses, and other animals roaming freely on major roads and highways, posing a significant threat to motorist safety. Lawmakers emphasized that this situation is leading to repeated accidents across the state, endangering both humans and animals.
The concern was raised through a motion titled “Need to Avert the Dangers Inherent in the Unsupervised Movement of Cattle, Horses and Other Animals on Public Roads in Kwara State,” sponsored by Oba Abdulkadir Magaji, Odetundun Olushola, and Lawal Saliu, representing Ilorin Central, Irepodun, and Ipaye/Malete/Oloru constituencies. The House Leader presented the motion, highlighting the “dangerous dimension” that the free movement of livestock on public roads has taken, resulting in collisions, damaged vehicles, and traffic disruptions in many communities.
According to the lawmakers, allowing animals to wander onto highways contravenes existing laws on animal control, road safety, and public order. They cautioned that the carelessness of livestock owners is putting both people and animals at risk, as motorists are often forced to swerve to avoid hitting the animals, leading to multiple accidents, vehicle damage, and injuries.
In response to the motion, Speaker Yakub Danladi announced the House resolutions, directing the Ministry of Livestock to enforce laws holding animal owners responsible when their cattle, horses, or other animals roam without supervision. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with Local Government Authorities, are tasked with enforcing rules that ban the free movement of livestock on highways and roads within urban areas.
The decision aims to address the concern and prevent further accidents. The enforcement of these laws is expected to improve road safety and reduce the risks associated with animals roaming freely on public roads. By taking these measures, the Kwara State government seeks to protect both its citizens and their livestock, promoting a safer and more orderly environment for all.
