By Dada AYOKHAI
Forestry Commission Condemns Killing of Hippopotamus in Anegbette
By Dada AYOKHAI
The Edo State Government through the Edo State Forestry Commission had expressed her displeasure over killing of
a hippopotamus in the Okumuzo River, a tributary of the Alika River, located in Anegbette Community of Etsako Central Local Government Area in the State.
The Anegbette community as tradition do celebrate hunters who killed wild species hence celebrated the killing of Hippopotamus by a local, Patrick David in a local river.
The animal, reported to be “three times bigger than a cow,” was a spectacle that left residents in awe.
“It was a day they have never seen in their lives,” said Innocent Oshafi, a local resident, describing the unprecedented excitement in Anegbette.
According to a press release signed by Hon. Dr. Valentine Owamagbe Asuen,
Chairman, Edo State Forestry Commission who described the killing as heinous crime said the Commission has set up necessary modalities to forestall further killings of hippopotamus and other rare species of animals in the State.
The Commission wishes to state that the hippopotamus as an endangered and amphibious species, represents not only a valuable part of our ecosystem, but also a potential source of tourism, education, and sustainable livelihood for the Anegbette Community, the State, and the Nation at large. The loss of such an endangered animal is more than just the loss of a species; it signifies the loss of a rare opportunity.
The Okumuzo riverside location holds immense potential for development into a tourist attraction, capable of drawing visitors from far and wide to witness these unique animals in their natural habitat. Such initiative would create jobs and enhance the local economy.
In light of the above, we urge members of the public and especially host communities to such endangered species of animals to:
- Support the Edo State Forestry Commission in its efforts to protect and conserve aquatic wildlife for future generations.
- Report any instances of hunting or killing of protected species to the Edo State Forestry Commission at the premises of the Edo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Air Port Road, Benin City.
- Collaborate with the Edo State Forestry Commission to promote eco-tourism and sustainable development in our natural heritage sites.
The Edo State Forestry Commission on behalf of the State Government therefore solicits the cooperation of all stakeholders in preserving nature for posterity and for the transformation of our natural heritage into a source of pride, income, and sustainable growth.
Signed,
Thursday, 14th August, 2025.
