By correspondent in Lokoja.
Photo credit: Oil city.
The Kogi State Government has issued a stern warning to owners of stray horses in the vicinity of Lokoja metropolis, stating that offenders will face legal consequences including heavy fines and imprisonment.
In a public notice signed by Hon. Timothy Ojomah, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, the government announced its intention to enforce strict penalties against any stray horse found within the town.
Expressing concern over the widespread incidence of horses roaming freely in Lokoja township, Ojomah noted that such actions violates the Kogi State Animal Disease Control Law of 2024.
According to Section 23, Subsection 1 (a & b) of the law, it is deemed unlawful for horse owners to neglect the welfare of their animals by allowing them to roam unsupervised.
“In accordance with this law, first-time offenders may face a minimum fine of Fifty Thousand Naira (#50,000.00) or three months’ imprisonment, or both,” stated Hon. Ojomah. “Subsequent offenders, however, will incur a minimum fine of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (#150,000.00) or six months’ imprisonment, or both.”
The Commissioner urged horse owners to ensure the proper maintenance of their animals by providing appropriate stabling facilities and preventing them from wandering into public areas.
He explained that allowing horses to stray around the town might cause accidents which is against public safety and animal welfare.
The commissioner explained that leaving horses to stray around the town might cause accidents which is against the public safety and protection of animal welfare.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
