Edo govt condemns killing of hippopotamus

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Government has condemned the 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 Government expressed its condemnation in a statement on Thursday, August 14, by the Edo State Forestry Commission, signed by its Chairman, Valentine Owamagbe Asuen.

It disclosed that it has set up necessary modalities to forestall further killings of hippopotamus and other rare species of animals in the State.

The statement reads:

“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:

“1. Support the Edo State Forestry Commission in its efforts to protect and conserve aquatic wildlife for future generations.

“2. 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.

“3. 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.”