A hippopotamus killed a 60-year-old fisherman, Malam Usman Maigadi, on Sunday at Yauri River in Kebbi State.
Maigadi, who was employed as a guard at the Emir of Yauri’s Orchard Farm, was fishing when the animal attacked, likely in defense of its young, according to reports from Daily Post.
The Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Shu’aibu, confirmed that Maigadi has been buried.
He stated, “Maigadi has been buried according to Islamic rites in Yauri, after a funeral prayer.”
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, Governor Nasir Idris extended condolences to the Yauri Emirate and Maigadi’s family.
“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.
Animal attacks, while rare, can occur when humans inadvertently come into close contact with wildlife.
These incidents often arise when animals feel threatened or perceive a danger to their young or territory.
In February 2024, Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, the veterinary technologist in charge of the Zoological Garden at Obafemi Awolowo University in Osun State, was killed by a lion on campus.
Similarly, in 2020, lions attacked and fatally injured South African conservationist West Mathewson, 69, without warning.