The Managing Director of Kano Zoo, Sadik Kura Muhammad, has confirmed the recovery and evacuation of a python that escaped from the residence of a former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris.
The python, along with other wild animals including a crocodile and a lion cub, have been relocated to the zoo following public concern and safety fears.
The snake’s escape triggered panic among residents of Daneji and neighbouring communities in Kano State. Locals from Daneji, Mandawari, Kabara, and Soron Dinki said they were unable to sleep peacefully until the reptile was captured and removed from the area.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station in Kano, the zoo’s managing director explained that the former AGF voluntarily handed over the animals after learning of the unrest caused by the python’s escape. Muhammad confirmed that the animals are now securely housed at Kano Zoo.
“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,” Muhammad said.
“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 requires owners to obtain a license, create a suitable habitat, and ensure proper feeding and safety before approval is granted.
Muhammad said Idris possessed a valid license and clarified that the lion found at the residence was still a cub and posed no danger.
“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,” he said.
“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,” he added.
Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, confirmed that an investigation into the matter has begun and that Idris has been invited for questioning.
Ahmed Idris served as the Accountant General of the Federation under former President Muhammadu Buhari. In 2022, he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for allegedly diverting N109.5 billion in public funds.
