A tragic incident occurred in Kebbi State on Sunday, September 22, 2024, when a mother hippopotamus, believed to be protecting its baby, attacked and killed 60-year-old Malam Usman Maigadi, a guard for the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu-Abdullahi.
Maigadi was fishing in the Yauri River at Tillo Village looking for a way to make a living when the animal struck, leading to his death.
The Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Shu’aibu, confirmed the incident that had occurred, noting that Maigadi was buried according to Islamic rites and beliefs.
The attack has left a deep impact and inflicted pain on the community, especially Maigadi’s family, who will never get to see him again, for whom he was the breadwinner.
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The loss will undoubtedly bring hardship to the family considering the recent economic difficulty, with many community members calling for support.
The Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, expressed his condolences to the Yauri Emirate and Maigadi’s family, praying for forgiveness for the deceased to be able to find a peaceful place of rest.
Moreover, it was urged that wildlife authorities assess potential dangers from animals near residential areas to prevent further tragedies from occurring.
The government and community leaders have been called upon to provide assistance to the grieving family during this difficult time for consolation.