Tragedy as Hippopotamus kills 60-year-old fisherman in Kebbi State

A tragic incident occurred on Sunday at the Yauri River in Kebbi State when a 60-year-old fisherman, Malam Usman Maigadi, was killed by a hippopotamus.

Maigadi, who worked as a guard at the Emir of Yauri’s Orchard Farm, was attacked by the animal while fishing, with reports suggesting the hippopotamus likely acted in defense of its young.

The Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Shu’aibu, confirmed the fisherman’s death and stated that Maigadi had been buried according to Islamic rites after a funeral prayer in Yauri.

Governor Nasir Idris expressed his condolences to Maigadi’s family and the Yauri Emirate through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Idris.

“I want the emirate and members of the deceased family to take heart and accept the will of the Almighty in good faith.

“I pray to Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” the governor said.

Meanwhile, animal attacks, though rare, can occur when humans inadvertently come into close contact with wildlife.

These incidents often happen when animals feel threatened or perceive a danger to their young or territory.

In February 2024, the veterinary technologist in charge of the Zoological Garden of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun State, Mr Olabode Olawuyi, was killed by a lion on the campus.

In 2020, lions attacked and killed a South African conservationist, West Mathewson, 69, without warning.