Tension As Python Escapes From Home Of Top Nigerian Politician, On Trial For ₦109.5b Fraud
A python and other wild animals found at the residence of former Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, have been safely evacuated to the Kano Zoo following public panic over the reptile’s escape.
The Managing Director of the Kano Zoological and Wildlife Management Agency, Sadik Kura Muhammad, confirmed the development during a radio interview on Thursday.
He said the python had slithered out of the former AGF’s home in Daneji, causing fear and unrest across nearby communities, including Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki, according to Daily Trust.
In addition to the python, a crocodile and a lion cub were also discovered at Idris’ residence and have been transferred to the zoo.
Muhammad noted that the animals are now in their custody.
He said the owner, Ahmed Idris, voluntarily handed them over to the zoo following public concern.
The Managing Director of the Kano Zoological noted that Idris had a valid license to keep them, and they had not reached a stage where they posed any danger.
Muhammad said, “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 further explained 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,” Muhammad added.
Meanwhile, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, confirmed that an investigation is underway and that Ahmed Idris has been invited for questioning in connection with the incident.
It was reported that some residents were left terrified by the incident and said they couldn’t sleep properly until the python was confirmed captured and removed.
Aminu Balarabe said he had been aware of the presence of wild animals at Idris’ residence for some time, but this was the first time one had escaped.
“We were sleeping with one eye open due to fear. Even if it’s still a cub, no one jokes with safety,” he said.
However, another resident, Hayatuddeen Muhammad, maintained that wild animals should never be kept in residential areas.
“That house is surrounded by many others. 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.
Usman Yunusa, a resident living some distance away from the house, voiced his concern, noting that he only became aware of the animals after the news surfaced.
Recent Viral Video Shows Idris Playing With Monitor Lizard At Home
A recent video published by SaharaReporters shows Ahmed Idris casually playing with a pet monitor lizard at his residence.
Idris, who served during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was suspended in 2022 after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested him over the alleged diversion of N109.5 billion in public funds.
The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows the embattled former official appearing relaxed and carefree with the large reptile in what seems to be his living room.
