A python that escaped from the residence of a former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, has been recovered and evacuated, along with other wild animals, to the zoo in Kano.
The Managing Director of Kano Zoo, Sadik Kura Muhammad, who confirmed this said the python’s escape caused panic among residents of Daneji and surrounding communities in the State.
Residents of nearby communities, including Daneji, Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki, said they could not sleep peacefully until the python was captured and removed from the area.
Speaking in an interview with a local radio station in Kano, the Zoo’s MD said other wild animals found in Idris’ residence included a crocodile and a cub, clarified that Idris had a valid license to keep the animals and that they had not reached a stage where they posed any danger.
Muhammad explained that the former AGF voluntarily handed over the animals to the zoo, and they are now in the zoo’s custody.
“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.
“However, endangered species-those facing extinction, such as parrots and vultures-must only be kept in zoos to support their reproduction and survival, not for personal amusement,” he said
The MD added that the law also outlines requirements such as obtaining a license, creating an appropriate habitat, and ensuring proper feeding and safety as conditions for approval.
“When I heard about the situation, I verified that he had a license and that the lion was still a cub, posing no harm. But once such animals reach a certain age, they must be transferred to the zoo.
“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.
“I visited the residence and confirmed 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. We collected them, and they are now safely housed in Kano Zoo.
“We conducted the evacuation at night, so there is no cause for alarm,” the MD said.
Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, also confirmed that an investigation has begun and that Idris has been invited for questioning regarding the matter.
‘We slept with one eye open until the python was caught’
Some residents said they were terrified and unable to sleep properly until the python was confirmed captured and removed.
Aminu Balarabe said, “We were sleeping with one eye open due to fear. Even if it’s still a cub, no one jokes with safety.”
Another resident, Hayatuddeen Muhammad, said such animals should never be kept in residential areas.
“Many others surround that house. 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,” he said.
- Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri Quits From PDP - October 16, 2025
- Students Give ASUU, Federal Government 7 Days To Resolve Ongoing Disputes - October 16, 2025
- Yobe Retirees To Receive N5.8bn In Outstanding Gratuity - October 16, 2025