In a startling twist to an already catastrophic flood in northeast Nigeria, several animals have escaped from the Sanda Kyarimi Zoo in Borno state. Videos circulating widely on social media capture the bewildering sight of these animals roaming the streets of Maiduguri, the state capital. Ali Donbest, the zoo’s director, confirmed that the floodwaters had breached zoo walls, setting several wild animals free.
An Ostrich on the Loose, but No Tally of the Missing
While it’s unclear exactly how many creatures have fled, one ostrich has already been recaptured. “A hunt is on to locate the others,” said Donbest, who also urged local residents to remain cautious. As the situation unfolds, authorities are uncertain of the full extent of the escape, with some enclosures, including those housing lions and hyenas, now submerged.
Wild Animals and Widespread Fear
The flood has triggered panic among locals, especially after videos showed an ostrich running freely through the streets. Local media outlets report that Maiduguri is experiencing its worst flooding in three decades, displacing thousands of residents and, in this case, a few zoo animals.
Zoo Director Cites Partial Success in Animal Search
Donbest mentioned some success in locating escaped animals. “We’ve managed to recapture the ostrich seen on the street, and we’ve received a call that a crocodile has been found in another area. However, the floods prevent us from accessing that location,” he explained.
Floodwaters May Have Released More than Zoo Animals
Concerns over which animals are on the loose have only deepened. According to Donbest, the zoo does not house hippos, yet there have been reports of one sighted in the area. “It’s possible that the floodwaters have dispersed animals from other locations,” he added, hinting at an even larger crisis.
Locals Voice Growing Fears Over Unexpected Encounters
For Maiduguri residents, like Ishaq Sani, the idea of encountering a wild animal while navigating flood-ravaged streets has become a nightmarish reality. Sani, who has fled his home and is now taking refuge with a friend, told the BBC, “My biggest fear at the moment is to come across a wild animal.”
No Reports of Attacks — Yet
Thankfully, there have been no reports of animals attacking humans so far. However, the uncertainty continues to loom large over Maiduguri, a city already grappling with the devastating effects of flooding.
A Grim New Normal for Nigeria?
This incident is just the latest in a series of severe floods that have struck Nigeria in recent months. Over 170 people have lost their lives, and tens of thousands have been forced from their homes, according to Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency. As floodwaters rise, so too do fears, both of the unknown and the untamed.
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