TAKING WILDLIFE CRIME SERIOUSLY
Wildlife trafficking poses a threat to Nigeria’s biodiversity and security Tomorrow in Kano, three high-profile wildlife traffickers will be arraigned in court on a case that should be taken seriously.
Wildlife trafficking in Nigeria poses a significant threat to the country's biodiversity and security. Three high-profile wildlife traffickers are set to be arraigned in court in Kano, having been intercepted with 48 live endangered animals, including baby gorillas and chimpanzees. Wildlife crime is often underestimated by law enforcement, but it is linked to other serious crimes, such as insurgency and banditry.
In 2003, Nigeria was labeled a hub in the illegal trade of endangered wildlife after two gorillas were intercepted in Kano, leading to their return to Cameroon. Despite international pressure, authorities have not always effectively prosecuted wildlife traffickers. For instance, Shamsideen Abubakar, a notorious smuggler, was arrested in 2022 after evading authorities since 2021.
Nigeria once had diverse populations of monkeys and apes, but deforestation has led to the extinction of many species. As a signatory to CITES, Nigeria is responsible for protecting various species listed as 'vulnerable' by the IUCN. However, the government has failed to equip forest guards adequately to combat poachers, who operate with impunity within protected areas.
Authorities must prioritize wildlife crime to preserve biodiversity, ensure national security, and meet international obligations.
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