As the sun sets for cattle-rustlers in Katsina

The activities of cattle-rustlers in some parts of Katsina State are not only alarming, but a catastrophe of great proportions, which has never happened before in the history of the state. Over the years, these miscreants have rustled many thousands of cows,  killed several people, even raped countless women, destroying lives in the process. Many […]

The activities of cattle-rustlers in some parts of Katsina State are not only alarming, but a catastrophe of great proportions, which has never happened before in the history of the state. Over the years, these miscreants have rustled many thousands of cows,  killed several people, even raped countless women, destroying lives in the process. Many villages were ransacked,  which forced their dwellers to take refuge in urban centres for the safety of their lives, causing all kinds of social structure disorganisation.
A good number of communities in some local governments bordering Rugu Forest have been sleeping with one eye open due to incessant attacks which occur seemingly on a daily basis, not only in the night, but in broad daylight. The most devastating effects of the menace is that cattle-rearing, which is the major source of livelihood to Fulani people and many rural communities, has now became a dangerous trade. The same holds true for farming – the mainstay  of the economy of the state – as it has become difficult as even the working bulls used by the farmers are not spared by the rustlers.
But it is heart-warming to see the war waged against cattle-rustling, by the governor, Aminu Bello Masari since he took the mantle of leadership of the state, has started yielding positive results and restoring hope in the minds of the affected communities. The governor had foreseen cattle-rustling as a security challenge, on which if drastic measures are not taken in containing it, certainly will bring the entire economy of the state to poor, sorry ruins.
In dishing out commendation, while the first one is the state government’s accolades, the second points belong to our security agencies. The men and women of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police and even local vigilantes all have a share in the glory that is the near-eradication of the heinous crime of cattle-rustling and its auxiliary add-ons. They have tirelessly risked their lives to commit to the fight against those who would bring our society to ruin. To them, I say a big thank you, while I wish them God’s protection and guidance as they protect us and apprehend criminals.
So far, the Katsina State government has recovered thousands of rustled cattle, sheep, goats and donkeys and handed same back to legitimate owners. Then cattle-rustlers who survived the efforts of security personnel have either repented or left the state, as it is no longer easy for them to operate. This, to my mind, is indeed a most welcome development and it is my hope – along with all other well-meaning citizens of Katsina – that it is sustained. As the sun sets for the cattle-rustlers, so we welcome the dawn that follows it and will, God-willing, be sustained.
Kofar-Sauri wrote from Katsina, Katsina State.