A shocking incident in Kano State has stirred panic among residents of the Daneji community and nearby areas after a python escaped from the residence of former Accountant General of the Federation, Mr. Ahmed Idris. The python, along with a crocodile and a cub, were discovered by local authorities and evacuated to the Kano Zoo, where they are now under proper care.
Sadik Kura Muhammad, Managing Director of Kano Zoo, confirmed the recovery of the python and other wild animals from the residence of Idris. The discovery sent shockwaves through the local communities, causing residents to live in fear until the creatures were safely removed. Residents from Daneji, Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki communities expressed their deep concern, saying they could not rest until the python was captured.
The zoo’s MD explained in an interview with a local radio station that the animals were handed over voluntarily by the former AGF. Muhammad clarified that Idris had a valid license to keep wild animals, and at the time of evacuation, the animals had not yet reached a stage where they posed a threat. However, once animals like lions grow older, they must be transferred to a zoo, as per the Wild Animal Law. This law stipulates that endangered species must be kept in facilities that support their reproduction and survival, rather than for personal amusement.
“The lion was still a cub, posing no harm. However, once animals reach a certain age, they must be transferred to a zoo,” Muhammad said. “I visited the residence and confirmed that the animals had not reached a dangerous stage. However, due to concerns raised by neighbours, the former AGF decided to surrender all the animals to the government.”
The evacuation took place at night to avoid further public alarm. Meanwhile, Kano State Police Commissioner, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, confirmed that an investigation into the incident has begun, with Idris invited for questioning regarding the matter.
Residents Share Their Fear
Several residents from the area expressed their concerns about the safety of having such wild animals in a densely populated neighbourhood. Aminu Balarabe, one local, recounted the feeling of fear that plagued his community: “We were sleeping with one eye open due to fear. Even if it’s still a cub, no one jokes with safety.”
Another concerned resident, Hayatuddeen Muhammad, argued that wild animals should never be kept in residential areas. “That house is surrounded by many others. These animals should have been housed in a distant facility. It’s unfortunate. Though Idris is a good man who supports his neighbours, this poses a real danger,” Muhammad said.
For some, the news was a complete shock. Usman Yunusa, who resides further away, said he was unaware of the wild animals until the news broke.
A Controversial Past
The former Accountant General, who served during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, was already a controversial figure. He garnered national attention in 2022 when he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly diverting N109.5 billion in public funds.
As the investigation continues, the people of Kano remain deeply concerned about the safety of their communities and the implications of keeping such dangerous animals within residential areas.
