Adamawa hippopotamus attack kills third resident in Kiri community, prompting calls for urgent government action to prevent further incidents

Frequent hippopotamus attacks in Kiri community, Shelleng Local Government Area, have claimed a third victim, heightening fears among residents.

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The latest fatality involved 65-year-old Yakubu Galadima, widely known as Yakubu Kuri, who was fishing on Friday when a hippopotamus attacked him.

According to a source familiar with the incident, Galadima jumped into the river after the animal appeared suddenly near his boat. The hippo seized his leg and dragged him into deeper waters, resulting in his death.

The source added that Galadima, a father of eight, relied on fishing as his primary livelihood. “He was a household man with responsibilities, and the incident has left the community in shock,” the source said.

Local residents explained that the hippopotamus involved belongs to the government and cannot be harmed without official consent.

The Adamawa State Government has yet to release a statement regarding the attacks, while affected residents have urged immediate intervention to prevent further loss of life.

The attacks in Kiri community have occurred on multiple occasions, killing and injuring several people, and residents are calling for urgent government measures to control the animal and protect vulnerable community members.

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Community leaders and locals have emphasised the need for swift action, warning that inaction could lead to additional tragedies.