Edo State Hippopotamus Killing sparks outrage as Forestry Commission sets up measures to protect endangered species and promote eco-tourism

Edo State Hippopotamus Killing has drawn strong condemnation from the Edo State Government following the death of the endangered animal in the Okumuzo River, a tributary of the Alika River in Anegbette Community, Etsako Central LGA.

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In a statement issued on Thursday, August 14, by the Edo State Forestry Commission, Chairman Valentine Owamagbe Asuen decried the killing, emphasizing the ecological and economic loss to the state and community.

“The hippopotamus, as an endangered and amphibious species, represents not just a part of our ecosystem, but a potential source of tourism, education, and sustainable livelihood,” the statement read.

Authorities have since launched urgent conservation measures to prevent further killings of hippopotamuses and other rare species across the state.

Asuen emphasized that the Okumuzo riverside area holds vast potential to become a tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to witness these unique creatures in their natural habitat—an initiative that could spur job creation and boost local economies.

In response, the Edo State Forestry Commission outlined three key public actions:

Support wildlife conservation efforts across the state.

Report any hunting or killing of protected species to the Commission at the Edo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) office on Airport Road, Benin City.

Collaborate to develop eco-tourism and sustainable initiatives in natural heritage sites.

The Commission called on stakeholders, community members, and conservation advocates to see this moment not just as a tragedy, but as a turning point for eco-conscious development.

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“Let us preserve our natural heritage for posterity and turn it into a source of pride, income, and sustainable growth,” the statement concluded.