A rampaging hippopotamus that had been causing panic across several communities in the southern part of Adamawa State has been captured, following weeks of fear, destruction, and loss.
IREPORT247NEWS reported that the chaos began when several hippopotamuses, displaced by recent flooding, began to roam into human settlements.
The flooding, which severely affected the areas surrounding the Kiri Dam in Shelleng Local Government Area, forced the animals out of their natural aquatic habitat and into the nearby communities.
Tragically, the crisis turned deadly when one of the animals attacked and killed a young man in the Banjiram community of Guyuk Local Government Area on Monday, July 28, 2025. This incident has intensified anxiety and fear among the local population, who now live under constant threat of wildlife encounters.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Guyuk LGA, Mr. Shalom Kassa, explained that the displaced hippopotamuses have been moving freely across farmlands, riverbanks, and even residential areas in both Guyuk and Shelleng LGAs.
“This development poses a grave danger to human lives and livelihoods,” Kassa warned. “They are not only trampling and destroying farmlands and invading homes submerged by the floodwaters, but also threatening residents and their livestock.”
Kassa also noted that the communities are practically helpless, as existing environmental protection laws prohibit the killing or harming of wildlife, including hippopotamuses, even when they become a threat to human life and property. This has left local residents with few options for defense or deterrence.
Flood-Displaced Hippopotamuses Kill One, Wreak Havoc in Adamawa
A recent update indicates that one of the hippopotamuses has been killed by residents, reportedly to serve as a feast.
The development has sparked further debate over wildlife protection laws versus community safety, especially in emergency situations caused by climate-induced displacement of dangerous animals.
Local authorities are appealing for urgent intervention from wildlife and environmental agencies to prevent further loss of life and property.
