Farmers in Ketembere community, located in Shelleng Local Government Area of Adamawa State, have raised alarm over the repeated invasion of their farmlands by a hippopotamus, which they say has caused serious damage to crops and threatened the livelihoods of many families.
The wild animal, believed to have emerged from a nearby river, has reportedly been leaving its natural habitat regularly to enter farmlands in search of food. During these visits, the hippopotamus destroys crops cultivated by local farmers, leaving many residents worried about the future of their agricultural activities.
For years, farming has remained the main source of survival for many families in Ketembere. Farmers in the area depend heavily on crops such as maize, rice, millet, and other agricultural produce to provide food for their households and generate income. However, the continuous destruction caused by the animal has turned farming into a difficult and uncertain venture.
Residents explained that the situation has become a major challenge because farmers invest significant time, money, and effort into preparing their farms, only to see their crops destroyed within a short period. The losses have created economic hardship for families who rely on successful harvests to support their daily needs.
One of the affected residents said the community has been living in fear because the presence of the hippopotamus has affected farming activities and created concerns about safety, especially for people working close to the river areas.
The farmers appealed to the Adamawa State Government, wildlife authorities, and relevant environmental agencies to take immediate action to address the situation. They called for measures that would protect both the community and the animal while ensuring that farmers can continue their agricultural activities without constant threats.
The residents stressed that they are not calling for harm against the animal but are seeking a lasting solution that will prevent further destruction of their farms. They urged authorities to consider wildlife management strategies that would reduce human animal conflict in the area.
Human wildlife conflict has become an increasing concern in several parts of Nigeria, particularly in communities located near forests, rivers, and protected wildlife areas. As human settlements and farming activities expand, encounters between people and wild animals have become more frequent.
Experts have often advised that effective solutions should include community awareness, proper wildlife monitoring, creation of safe boundaries, and quick response mechanisms when dangerous animals enter residential or farming areas.
The people of Ketembere are now appealing for urgent support before more farmers suffer additional losses. They fear that if the situation continues without intervention, food production in the community could be affected, putting further pressure on families already struggling with rising agricultural costs.
Agriculture remains a key part of Adamawa State’s economy, with thousands of residents depending on farming for employment, food security, and income. Protecting farmers from challenges such as wildlife attacks is considered essential to maintaining food production and supporting rural communities.
The affected farmers are calling on authorities to visit the community, assess the level of damage, and develop a sustainable plan to prevent future incidents. They believe immediate action will not only save their farms but also restore confidence among farmers who are becoming discouraged by repeated losses.
As the community continues to wait for assistance, residents are urging government agencies and concerned organisations to listen to their appeal and provide support that will allow them to return to their farms without fear.
The farmers’ message remains clear: they want a peaceful solution that protects human lives, preserves wildlife, and ensures that their farmlands remain productive for future generations.
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