Tension gripped the Daneji community in Kano over the weekend after a python reportedly escaped from the residence of Ahmed Idris, the former Accountant-General of the Federation. The shocking discovery led to the evacuation of not just the python, but also a crocodile and a lion cub found within the premises.
According to reports, the python slithered out of the premises and into the surrounding neighbourhood, sparking panic among residents of Daneji and neighbouring communities such as Kabara, Mandawari, and Soron Dinki. The incident, which occurred in a densely populated area, triggered urgent calls to wildlife and security authorities.
Following swift intervention by officials from the Audu Bako Zoological Garden, all three wild animals were safely removed from the residence. The evacuation was carried out discreetly at night to avoid escalating public fear.
Speaking to journalists, Sadik Kura Muhammad, Managing Director of the Kano Zoo, confirmed the animals have been relocated to the zoo for proper care. He stated that the former AGF held a valid license to keep wild animals under Nigeria’s Wild Animal Law, which permits the private ownership of exotic species under strict regulations.
“The lion is still a cub and posed no immediate danger. However, based on the law, once the lion matures, it must be relocated to a zoo or wildlife sanctuary,” he explained.
Despite the legality of the ownership, the incident has sparked widespread public outcry. Residents expressed outrage that such dangerous animals were kept in a residential area without their knowledge.
“What if a child had been attacked? We couldn’t sleep peacefully,” a resident of Kabara told reporters.
The Kano State Police Command has launched an investigation into the matter. The State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, confirmed that Mr. Idris has been invited for questioning. Authorities aim to determine if there was negligence in the housing and containment of the animals.
Wildlife experts are also expected to review the safety conditions of the premises and the processes that allowed the python to escape.
This incident has renewed public discourse on the risks and responsibilities associated with private ownership of wild animals, even when such ownership is legally permitted. Many are calling for stricter enforcement and regular monitoring of exotic animal licenses, especially in residential zones.
Mr. Idris, who served as the Accountant-General of the Federation until his suspension in 2022 over corruption allegations, has not issued a public statement regarding the incident as of press time.
