Gombe lawmaker urges FG to tackle deadly hippo attacks affecting fishermen and farmers

‎The lawmaker representing Yamaltu/Deba Federal Constituency in Gombe State, Hon. Inuwa Garba, has called on the Federal Government to address frequent hippopotamus attacks that have caused deaths and destruction in communities.
‎
‎During a plenary session on Thursday, Hon. Garba raised urgent concerns about the rising number of incidents involving hippos attacking fishermen and farmers, especially those living near rivers and farmlands.
‎
‎These attacks have resulted in multiple casualties and injuries, deepening the hardship for families who rely on fishing and agriculture for their livelihoods.
‎
‎Gombe State, along with neighbouring Bauchi, is home to various wildlife species, but fatal human encounters with hippos are becoming alarmingly common in the Yamaltu/Deba area.
‎
‎Recent reports indicate that on October 5, a canoe was attacked resulting in the death of Yahaya Bawa and injuries to several others.The attacks have caused panic, forcing many residents to abandon their work on riverbanks and farmlands, threatening food security and economic stability in the region.
‎
‎The frequent presence of aggressive hippos has disrupted daily life and instilled fear in entire communities.
‎
‎The House adopted a motion urging the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission to supply motorised boats to aid farmers and traders in these riverine areas. It also called for the establishment of an inter-agency committee to assess the damage and deliver relief materials and compensation. The House Committees on HYPPADEC, Water Resources, and Agricultural Production and Services have been mandated to visit affected communities for further assessment and lasting solutions.
‎