Fear has gripped residents of Daneji, a densely populated community in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, following the escape of an African rock python from the private residence of the embattled former Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris.
Naijaonpoint reports that the incident, which occurred on Sunday, has triggered widespread anxiety, with many residents abandoning outdoor activities and demanding urgent government intervention.
Speaking with Arewa Punch, a Daneji resident, Nurulhaq Kabir Muhammad, said the neighbourhood has been on edge since the snake went missing.
“Since the python escaped, everyone has been living in fear. All the other animals in the house were evacuated on Tuesday,” he said.
Another resident, Rabi’u Isma’il, described the situation as “terrifying,” adding that many parents have stopped allowing their children to play outside.
“We can’t sleep peacefully knowing that a giant snake is on the loose. It’s hiding somewhere,” he said.
Also speaking, Aisha Lawal, a mother of three, appealed to authorities to intervene swiftly.
“This is not just about the snake, it’s about our safety. We need help before something tragic happens,” she warned.
The Kano State Police Command has launched an investigation into Idris’s possession of wild animals, including crocodiles and pythons, within the city centre.
Confirming the development, Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, told Punch that Idris had been invited for questioning.
“It is true we invited the former AGF yesterday with regards to maintaining pets at his home, causing tension and pandemonium among residents,” Bakori stated.
He added that Idris had agreed to surrender all dangerous pets to the state zoological unit.
“We have dispatched an intelligence unit to the state zoology to confirm if the animals were truly surrendered and to investigate if any injuries or fatalities occurred due to the escaped python,” he added.
Emir Of Kano Intervenes, Warns Idris
Wading into the growing unrest, Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, issued a stern warning to the former Accountant General after receiving a delegation of Daneji residents who raised concerns about their safety.
“Should anything happen to anybody, he will be held responsible,” the Emir declared, urging Idris to evacuate the wild animals immediately.
Idris, who served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was previously arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of alleged misappropriation of over ₦109 billion.
While legal proceedings remain ongoing, Idris has largely kept a low profile since leaving office. The latest incident has once again brought him under intense scrutiny from the public and institutions.