Hippopotamus kills 60-year-old guard in Kebbi

A hippopotamus killed a 60-year-old fisherman, Malam Usman Maigadi, on Sunday at Yauri River, Kebbi State.

Maigadi, who worked as a guard at the Emir of Yauri’s Orchard Farm, was fishing when the animal attacked, likely in defense of its young, reports Daily Post.

The Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Shu’aibu, confirmed Maigadi’s burial.

He stated, “Maigadi has been buried according to Islamic rites in Yauri, after a funeral prayer.”

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, Governor Nasir Idris extended condolences to the Yauri Emirate and Maigadi’s family.

“I want the emirate and members of the deceased family to take heart and accept the will of the Almighty in good faith.

“I pray to Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, animal attacks, though rare, can occur when humans inadvertently come into close contact with wildlife.

These incidents often happen when animals feel threatened or perceive a danger to their young or territory.

In February 2024, the veterinary technologist in charge of the Zoological Garden of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun State, Mr Olabode Olawuyi, was killed by a lion on the campus.

In 2020, lions attacked and killed a South African conservationist, West Mathewson, 69, without warning.