A python, crocodile, and several other wild animals were discovered at the residence of a former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, sparking panic across several Kano communities.
The animals, which were kept within Idris’ compound in the Daneji area of the state capital, were evacuated by officials of the Kano Zoo after the python reportedly escaped, prompting widespread alarm in surrounding neighbourhoods including Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki.
Residents reported sleepless nights and heightened anxiety until the python was captured and removed.
Managing Director of the Kano Zoo, Sadik Kura Muhammad, confirmed the development in an interview with a local radio station. He said the animals were taken into custody to ensure public safety and are now housed at the Kano Zoo.
According to Muhammad, Idris voluntarily handed over the animals following the public outcry. “Although he possessed a valid licence to keep the animals, the zoo had to intervene when the escape of the python raised security concerns,” he said.
He explained that the state’s Wild Animal Law permits individuals to keep certain species under strict regulations, which include annual licence renewal, proper housing, and adherence to safety standards.
“Mr. Idris had a valid licence, and we confirmed that the lion in his care was still a cub. However, once wild animals reach a certain age, or pose a threat to public safety, they must be transferred to the zoo,” Muhammad stated.
He stressed that while none of the animals had become dangerous, they were retrieved proactively in response to concerns raised by neighbours.
“We conducted the evacuation at night, and all the animals are now safely housed at the zoo. There is no cause for alarm,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has confirmed that an investigation has been launched and Idris has been invited for questioning over the incident.
Ahmed Idris, who served as Accountant General under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is already facing prosecution over allegations of diverting N109.5 billion in public funds, for which he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2022.
