The Gombe State Government has issued a strong safety advisory to residents, particularly those living near riverine areas, following the recent killing of a 19-year-old fisherman by a hippopotamus in the Dadin Kowa River, Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Water, Environment and Forest Resources, Mohammed Fawu, confirmed the tragic incident, identifying the victim as Yahuza Bawa, a young farmer from the Dadin Kowa community. His companion, Abubakar, who was in the same boat, sustained serious injuries but survived the attack.
Fawu said the state government responded swiftly after the incident, leading to the recovery of the deceased’s body for burial.
He described the situation as unfortunate and assured that measures were being put in place to prevent a recurrence.
“This is quite unfortunate that it has happened, and it is because of misunderstanding between the animal and the community,” Fawu explained.
“From the reports we received, this period is when the animals have young ones and are very aggressive. They feel threatened whenever they see people in the water.”
The Commissioner cautioned farmers and fishermen to avoid entering the river during the hippos’ breeding period, as they tend to become more defensive and attack anyone who comes close.
He revealed that the government is working on a permanent solution—the establishment of a hippopotamus sanctuary city, which would ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife.
“Rebuilding safety requires awareness and precaution. Fishermen must take necessary measures before going out. Your life is more important than any catch,” he added.
Fawu also noted that officials of the ministry have been sensitising and would continue to sensitise riverine communities on safety practices to minimise human–animal conflicts.
Reacting to the incident, environmentalist Ismail Bima expressed concern over the recurring attacks and urged fishermen to embrace safer alternatives such as fish farming in ponds.
He also appealed to the government to find a lasting solution to the conflict while providing support for residents to reduce their dependence on open-water fishing.
Reports indicate that a few days after the fatal attack, other fishermen were also attacked by hippos in the same area but survived with varying degrees of injuries.
However, the state government reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety along the riverbanks and called for community cooperation in preventing further tragedies.
