A 41-year-old herder, Musa Lawal, reportedly collapsed after 42 of his cattle died in Koroko community, Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening while two of Lawal's sons were grazing the animals, according to the FCT Treasurer of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Yahuza Ibrahim.
Ibrahim said the cattle were later found dead at different locations in the bush, with initial suspicions pointing to grass that may have been contaminated with agricultural chemicals.
He explained that MACBAN officials visited the scene after receiving the report and confirmed the death of 42 cows.
Lawal reportedly rushed to the area after learning about the incident but collapsed upon seeing the extent of the loss. He was taken to the General Hospital in Kwali, where he received treatment and was discharged the following day.
Kwali Area Council Chairman, Nuhu Daniel Kwali, visited the family alongside Fulani community leaders to express sympathy over the incident.
The council chairman said the deaths had been reported to relevant security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), for investigation to determine the cause.
He added that the council is considering support for the affected herder and taking steps to prevent tensions between farmers and herders in the community while the investigation continues.
