To recall what transpired in the hallowed chamber between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adamu Aliero during the debate in the house, it is germane in this context to thumb up for the Senator Akpabio, who exhibited laudable audacity by countering Senator Aliero who allegedly compared cows to Nigerians by saying cows have rights the same way Nigerians have.
It is not an exaggeration to opine that Nigeria’s political history is replete with instances where lawmakers have made contentious avowals during parliamentary sittings. One of the more peculiar comparisons that have surfaced in the course of legislative meetings is the comparison of Nigerians to cows.
Given the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient to delve into some notable instances where such comparisons have been made, and highlight the context and implications of these statements.
To wax historical in this context, it is germane introspect beyond 1999 when Nigeria pragmatically transited to a democratic state, and recall that its legislature has evolved significantly since its inception during the colonial era. Initially established as an advisory body, the legislative council was composed of colonial officials and a few Nigerian representatives. Over time, the legislature transformed into a more robust institution with the power to enact laws and oversee the executive branch. Despite this evolution, the legislative process has often been marred by heated debates and controversial remarks.
For instance, during the debate on the controversial Grazing Bill in 2016, it was reported that a legislator compared Nigerians to cows in an attempt to emphasize the importance of cattle to the nation’s economy. The bill sought to establish grazing reserves for herders, a proposal that sparked widespread opposition. The legislator argued that just as cows are essential for providing milk and meat, Nigerians should recognize the value of herders and their livestock. This comparison was met with outrage from many Nigerians who felt it demeaned their humanity.
In a similar vein, in 2019, during a legislative discussion on the Ruga Settlement initiative proposed by the federal government aimed to create designated settlements for herders across the country, a senator made a controversial statement comparing the movement of herders and their cattle to the migration patterns of Nigerians seeking better opportunities. The senator’s analogy was intended to draw parallels between the search for greener pastures by both humans and animals. However, this comparison was criticized for trivializing the struggles of Nigerians.
Still in a similar vein, the debate over anti-open grazing laws in 2021 across various states also saw instances of legislators making comparisons between cows and Nigerians. In one of such debate, a lawmaker argued that just as cows need freedom to graze, Nigerians require freedom to move and live without restrictions. This statement was intended to highlight the importance of freedom for both livestock and citizens. Nevertheless, it was perceived by many as an inappropriate and insensitive comparison.
To buttress the foregoing views, it is expedient to recall that during plenary on Fulani herdsmen’s attacks in 2018 that a legislature, who was then representing Dukku/Nafada Federal Constituency of Gombe State, Hon. Aishatu Jibril Dukku threw her weight behind the herdsmen as she was reported to have said that herdsmen’s cows are very important to them, adding that they value their cows more than their own lives.
Also, just recently, Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP, Kebbi Central) reportedly stood in opposition to a bill that aimed to establish the National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission, arguing that cattle rearing and ranching activities were more prevalent in the North than in other parts of the country.
To recall what transpired in the hallowed chamber between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adamu Aliero during the debate in the house, it is germane in this context to thumb up for the Senator Akpabio, who exhibited laudable audacity by countering Senator Aliero who allegedly compared cows to Nigerians by saying cows have rights the same way Nigerians have.
Without sounding panegyric, Akpabio was able to rise to the occasion when some senators, who ordinarily one should think would be the shining stars of the Red Chamber, decided to be funny. He no doubt called them to order by enlightening them, and specifically targeting Aliero, said, “Cows are not citizens of Nigeria, Senator Aliero; are you arguing with me? The section you are referring to is talking about citizens of Nigeria. And cows are not citizens of Nigeria. Cows can come from Niger, Chad or anywhere”.
As earlier mentioned, Aliero was not standing alone in the opposition camp to the bill as another former governor and fellow senator, Danjuma Goje from Gombe Sate also argued in that direction. As can be deciphered from the arguments that transpired between the lawmakers, the duo ostensibly expressed the opinions of majority of the northern senators on the issue of open grazing. One cannot but feel ashamed of the argument.
In fact, the comparisons of Nigerians to cows by legislators have often been met with strong reactions from the public. Many Nigerians view such statements as demeaning and reflective of a lack of respect for the citizenry. These comparisons also underscore the deep-seated tensions between different groups in the country, particularly between herders and farmers.
Moreover, these instances highlight the challenges faced by the Nigerian legislature in addressing contentious issues. The use of provocative language and analogies can exacerbate divisions and hinder constructive dialogue. It is essential for legislators to exercise caution and sensitivity in their statements to foster unity and understanding among the diverse population.
Given the foregoing, it is germane to conclude this piece by opining that it is denigrating for cows to be compared to Nigerians in the guise of carrying out legislative duties.