A hippopotamus, displaced by flooding around the Kiri Dam in Shelleng, Adamawa State, has killed a young man in Banjiram, Guyuk LGA, triggering widespread panic among local residents. The incident, confirmed by Guyuk LGA Chairman, Mr. Shalom Kassa, marks a troubling escalation in human-wildlife conflict as the animal, along with others displaced by the floods, has been wreaking havoc across the area.

“This hippopotamus and others like it have been roaming populated areas, entering flooded homes, damaging crops, and threatening both human lives and livestock,” Kassa reported on Monday.

The flooding, a recurrent issue in the region, has pushed the once-dominant river-dwelling animals from their natural habitat. As a result, these hippos have been venturing into agricultural land and residential areas, further endangering lives and livelihoods. However, the local authorities are limited in their response due to wildlife protection laws that prohibit harming or killing hippopotamuses.

“We cannot act against the hippos due to legal restrictions. We call for immediate intervention from the Ministry of Environment, wildlife agencies, and the state government to address this growing problem,” Kassa added.

Shelleng LGA Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Abba, alongside traditional leaders, including the Kwandi Nunguraya of Guyuk, have joined in the appeal for swift government intervention to prevent further loss of life and damage.

Flooding has been a persistent issue in Adamawa State, leading to displacement of both humans and animals. This tragic incident raises concerns over the management of wildlife displacement and its impact on surrounding communities, particularly in light of the state’s struggle to combat frequent floods.

Authorities are now under pressure to take action as the threat continues to loom over local residents. The increasing risk of encounters with wild animals displaced by environmental factors poses a serious challenge to the safety and well-being of communities in Adamawa.