Businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his recent remarks on the issue of roaming cattle in Abuja, accusing the minister of failing to adequately address a matter many residents consider a public safety concern.
Fayose made the remarks in a post on his Facebook page while reacting to Wike’s media chat, during which the FCT minister declined to comment extensively on cattle roaming along major roads in the nation’s capital. Wike described the matter as one involving national security and said relevant security agencies were better positioned to handle it.
Reacting to the minister’s position, Fayose alleged that the government appeared more concerned about cattle than the welfare of citizens. He argued that authorities should give greater attention to issues affecting the safety and daily lives of Abuja residents, particularly complaints about cattle moving along highways and other busy roads.
Fayose also criticised what he described as the government’s response to public concerns, maintaining that leaders should focus on solving pressing national problems rather than avoiding difficult questions. He further linked his comments to recent public debates involving religious leaders and government officials, saying constructive criticism should not be dismissed.
During the media briefing, Wike explained that issues relating to roaming cattle involve broader security considerations and should be addressed through appropriate federal security institutions. He also acknowledged that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Livestock Development, has been engaging relevant stakeholders on measures to encourage ranching and reduce the presence of cattle within the city.
The minister further noted that the sight of cattle roaming parts of Abuja was undesirable and expressed support for long-term solutions capable of addressing the challenge in a coordinated manner. He stressed that resolving the issue requires collaboration among relevant authorities rather than isolated action by the FCT Administration.
The exchange has generated reactions on social media, with supporters and critics of both men expressing differing opinions on how the issue should be handled. While some Nigerians believe stricter measures are needed to prevent cattle from roaming urban roads, others agree that security agencies should lead efforts to resolve the problem.
Political observers say the latest remarks reflect the increasingly heated public debate surrounding governance, security and public accountability as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. They also urged public officials and political figures to maintain issue-based discussions that focus on practical solutions to the country’s challenges.
Meanwhile, stakeholders have continued to call for improved coordination among government institutions to address concerns over public safety, urban planning and livestock management. They maintain that lasting solutions should balance security, economic interests and the welfare of all Nigerians while preserving peace and social harmony.
