Fear has gripped residents of Guyuk and Shelleng local government areas in Adamawa State, following a disturbing incident involving a displaced hippopotamus.
The animal, reportedly forced out of its natural habitat due to flooding, attacked and killed a young man in Banjiram community, leaving locals terrified and helpless.
The tragic attack, which occurred over the weekend, has prompted calls for immediate government action.
Residents say the animals, now roaming freely through farmlands, riverbanks, and even flooded homes, pose a serious threat to both lives and livelihoods.
“This is a serious threat to human lives and means of livelihoods; the animals are destroying farmlands, invading flooded homes, and endangering residents and livestock,” said Shalom Kassa, Chairman of Guyuk Local Government Area.
According to community leaders, the Adamawa State flooding around the Kiri Dam in Shelleng displaced several hippopotamuses.
These animals, now unable to return to their natural space, have begun moving through populated zones.
Moreover, locals are unable to defend themselves. Wildlife laws in Nigeria prohibit the killing or harming of hippopotamuses, making the situation even more dangerous.
The fear of breaking the law has left many
residents in a difficult position.
“We are calling on the Ministry of Environment, wildlife authorities, and relevant agencies to step in immediately,” Kassa added.
Meanwhile, Kassa, alongside Shelleng LGA Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Abba, and traditional rulers, including the Kwandi Nunguraya of Guyuk, Kuruhaye, have approached the state government for urgent help.
Their visit to the capital, Yola, was aimed at drawing immediate attention to the chaos facing their communities.
Kassa explained that repeated floods across many parts of Adamawa State have pushed the animals into local communities.
In addition, many farmers have reported losing their crops, further worsening economic challenges in the area. With farmlands flooded and animals roaming free, families are struggling to protect their homes, food, and animals.
Therefore, local leaders are urging the Adamawa State government to consider long-term measures.
These include flood management and the safe relocation of the hippos to prevent further danger.
