The Managing Director of the Kano Zoo, Sadik Kura Muhammad, has confirmed that the python which escaped from the residence of a former Accountant General of the Federation(AGF), Ahmed Idris, has been recovered and evacuated, along with other wild animals, to the zoo.
The python’s escape caused panic among residents of Daneji and surrounding communities in Kano State.
Other wild animals found in Idris’ residence included a crocodile and a cub.
Residents of nearby communities-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 explained that following the widespread panic, the former AGF voluntarily handed over the animals to the zoo, and they are now in the zoo’s custody.
Muhammad clarified that Idris had a valid license to keep the animals and that they had not reached a stage where they posed any danger.
He 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 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 naighbours, the former AGF decided to surrender all the animals to the government. We collected them, and they are now safely housed in Kano Zoo. “
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.
Some residents who spoke on the incident said they were left terrified and unable to sleep properly until the python was confirmed captured and removed.
Ahmed Idris served as the Accountant General of the Federation(AGF) during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He gained national attention in 2022 after being arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly diverting N109.5 billion in public funds.
