In a statement released on Sunday, the Chairman of the Commission, Valentine Asuen, said the killing of the animal was not only unlawful but also short-sighted, considering the potential benefits the creature could have brought to the community and state at large. He described the hippopotamus as an endangered species that symbolises more than just wildlife—it represents culture, sustainability, and an opportunity to harness nature for economic growth.
“This amphibious animal is not only an endangered species, but also a potential source of tourism, education, and sustainable livelihood for the Anegbete community, the state and the nation in general,” Asuen noted.
🦛 The Loss of More Than a Species
For many locals, the killing of the hippopotamus may have seemed like an ordinary event, but conservationists insist that it is far from ordinary. Hippos are listed globally as vulnerable species, with their populations declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment. Every loss of one in the wild brings the world closer to the disappearance of a creature that once roamed freely across African waterways.
Asuen explained that the destruction of this rare animal should be seen as a collective loss, not just for Edo State but for Nigeria as a whole.
“The death of the hippopotamus is beyond the loss of a species; it is the loss of a rare opportunity,” he lamented.
He went on to highlight how the animal could have become a centrepiece of a conservation-driven economy, serving as a tourist attraction capable of generating jobs for the youth, revenue for the community, and prestige for the state.
🌊 Okumuzo Riverside: A Wasted Tourism Opportunity?
The statement drew attention to the Okumuzo riverside, a serene natural environment where the hippopotamus was sighted before its death. According to the Forestry Commission, the location could have been transformed into a thriving tourist attraction.
With strategic investment, Asuen argued, the riverside could have drawn visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, eager to see the hippos in their natural habitat. Hotels, restaurants, tour guides, and local artisans could have benefitted, creating a ripple effect of economic opportunities in Anegbete and neighbouring towns.
“The Okumuzo riverside location could have been developed into a natural tourist destination, drawing visitors from across the country and abroad. It would have created jobs, boosted the local economy, and positioned Edo as a leader in eco-tourism,” he added.
Instead, the opportunity was cut short by what the Commission described
as “a preventable act of destruction.”⚖️ Call for Stronger Conservation Measures
The killing of the hippopotamus has sparked renewed calls for stronger enforcement of conservation laws in Nigeria. Although the country is home to diverse wildlife, ranging from elephants to antelopes, lax enforcement of environmental regulations often leaves endangered species at the mercy of hunters.
The Edo State Forestry Commission has urged members of the public to see wildlife as shared heritage rather than prey. Communities are being called upon to support eco-friendly practices, report illegal hunting, and work hand in hand with the government to preserve natural resources.
“We therefore call on members of the public to join hands with Edo State Forestry Commission to preserve nature for posterity, and turn our natural heritage into a source of pride, income, and sustainable growth,” the statement concluded.
🌍 Why Conservation Matters
Experts say that the killing of the hippopotamus should serve as a wake-up call to Nigerians about the urgent need for conservation. Beyond their role as tourist attractions, animals such as hippos play an important part in maintaining ecological balance.
Hippos, for instance, contribute to river ecosystems by transferring nutrients from land to water. Their grazing and movement patterns help regulate aquatic vegetation, benefiting fish populations and, by extension, communities that depend on fishing.
Losing such an animal therefore creates ripple effects that extend beyond tourism—it threatens food security, environmental balance, and the cultural identity of communities living along waterways.
🇳🇬 A National Conversation on Eco-Tourism
Nigeria has long struggled to tap into the global eco-tourism market, which generates billions of pounds annually in countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania. These nations have successfully transformed their natural resources into global attractions, drawing tourists who spend heavily on safaris, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences.
For Edo State, the presence of hippopotamuses in Anegbete could have been the start of such a transformation. By building proper infrastructure, promoting conservation education, and training local guides, the state could have positioned itself as a unique destination in West Africa.
Instead, the tragic killing of this animal has once again highlighted the gap between Nigeria’s potential and its reality.
🔮 Looking Ahead: Turning Tragedy Into Opportunity
Despite the setback, the Edo Forestry Commission remains optimistic that the tragedy can spark new determination. The Commission plans to work with community leaders, conservationists, and tourism stakeholders to explore ways of protecting remaining wildlife and turning riverside communities into eco-friendly destinations.
Observers argue that the conversation must move beyond condemnation into concrete action. Laws must be enforced, awareness campaigns must reach rural communities, and partnerships with international conservation groups should be prioritised.
Only then, they insist, can tragedies like the killing of the Anegbete hippopotamus be prevented, and Edo State positioned as a leader in eco-tourism and sustainable development.
