Python Escape Sparks Panic in Kano, Ex-AGF's Residence Under Investigation
Residents of Daneji Quarters in Kano Municipal Local Government Area are gripped by fear and anxiety following the escape of a large African rock python from the private residence of a former Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Alhaji Ahmad Idris. The incident, which reportedly occurred on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, has sparked widespread panic, as the venomous snake remains at large and the community lives in fear of potential harm.
The Incident and Its Impact:
Escape from Private Residence: The python escaped from the heavily guarded "Country Home" of Alhaji Ahmad Idris in Daneji, a densely populated area within Kano city. This is not the first time residents have raised concerns about dangerous animals being kept at the former AGF's property, which is said to house several exotic pets, including other snakes and crocodiles.
Widespread Panic: The news of the python's escape has caused significant alarm. Residents, like Nurulhaq Kabir Muhammad, have expressed profound anxiety, stating, "Since the python escaped, everyone has been living in fear. All the other animals in the house were evacuated on Tuesday." Another resident, Rabi'u Isma'il, described the situation as "terrifying," with many unable to sleep peacefully due to the fear of a giant snake hiding somewhere in the neighborhood.
Previous Incident and Recapture Claim: While initial reports from July 19, 2025, indicated that a snake had briefly escaped from Idris's house and was recaptured before leaving the premises, the current situation suggests a more prolonged and uncontained escape of the python. There is conflicting information regarding whether the escaped snake is the same one that was reportedly recaptured earlier or if this is a new incident. However, the current panic indicates the python is still believed to be at large.
Investigation and Community Response:
Police Investigation: The Kano State Police Command has launched an investigation into Alhaji Ahmad Idris for maintaining dangerous pets and species, including pythons and crocodiles, within a city center. The Police Chief stated that an Intelligent Unit has been dispatched to the State Zoology to ascertain if the former AGF has truly surrendered the pets to them and to investigate if anyone sustained injuries or even death from the escaped python.
Calls for Intervention: Residents are urgently calling on security agencies and relevant authorities to intervene, locate the reptile, and ensure its immediate evacuation to prevent any possible harm to the public. They emphasize that a residential area is not suitable for keeping such dangerous animals.
Uncertainty on Escape Details: As of now, it remains unclear how the python managed to escape or what specific safety measures were in place at the residence that failed to prevent the escape. Efforts to reach the former AGF or members of his household for comment have been unsuccessful.
Broader Context:
The incident highlights concerns about the keeping of exotic and dangerous animals in private residences within populated areas, and the potential risks they pose to public safety. Nigeria has seen instances of wild animals escaping captivity, including from zoos, often exacerbated by environmental factors like flooding. This particular event, involving a prominent public figure, has drawn significant attention and underscores the need for strict regulations and enforcement regarding private animal collections.
The community remains on high alert as the search for the escaped python continues.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News