Python, Other Animals Found In Ex-AGF’s Home Moved To Kano Zoo
- A python that escaped from the residence of former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, sparked widespread panic across communities in Kano State
- Authorities confirmed the reptile, along with a crocodile and cub, were safely evacuated to Kano Zoo after Idris voluntarily surrendered them
- Local residents expressed relief but questioned the legality and safety of keeping wild animals in residential areas
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The managing director of Kano Zoo, Sadik Kura Muhammad, confirmed that a python which escaped from the residence of former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, had been recovered and relocated to the zoo alongside other exotic animals, including a crocodile and a lion cub.
The incident triggered alarm among residents in the Daneji area and nearby neighbourhoods, including Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki, who reported losing sleep over fears for their safety until the python was captured.
Source: Twitter
Muhammad stated in a radio interview in Kano that the panic prompted Idris to voluntarily surrender the animals.
“We conducted the evacuation at night, so there is no cause for alarm,” he said, reassuring the public that the animals were now in safe custody.
Wild animal law and licensing requirements
Muhammad explained that Idris had a valid license to keep the animals, adding that they had not yet reached a stage that posed any threat. He referenced the existing Wild Animal Law, which permits individuals to keep both endangered and non-endangered species under specific conditions.
“There is a law called the Wild Animal Law, which permits individuals to keep certain wild animals in their homes. These may include endangered and non-endangered species,” he said.
He stressed that endangered species like parrots and vultures must only be housed in zoos to aid conservation efforts. Muhammad further detailed the legal requirements for keeping wild animals, which include proper habitat creation, feeding, and safety protocols.
“That’s why the license must be renewed annually to ensure safety. Before any animal becomes potentially harmful, it should already be in our custody,” he noted.
Residents voice safety concerns over animal escape
Local residents shared their fear and frustration following the escape. Many expressed relief after the python was removed, with some questioning why wild animals were allowed in residential areas.
“We were sleeping with one eye open due to fear. Even if it’s still a cub, no one jokes with safety,” said resident Aminu Balarabe.
Another local, Hayatuddeen Muhammad, criticised the decision to keep wild animals near homes. “These animals should have been housed in a distant facility. It’s unfortunate,” he said, though he acknowledged Idris’ generosity to neighbours.
Further away from the scene, resident Usman Yunusa revealed he was unaware of the presence of the animals until the incident made headlines.
Source: Getty Images
Police investigation underway
Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, confirmed that an investigation had commenced and that Idris had been invited for questioning.
The former AGF previously drew national attention in 2022 when the EFCC arrested him over an alleged diversion of N109.5 billion during his tenure under President Muhammadu Buhari.
Tinubu appoints new Accountant General of Federation
Legit.ng earlier reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Accountant General of the Federation (AGF).
57-year-old Ogunjimi’s appointment takes effect from Friday, March 7, 2025, the same day the incumbent Oluwatoyin Madehin will retire.
Tinubu approved Ogunjimi’s appointment after a rigorous selection process on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
