Banjul North NAM Condemns Killing of Crocodile Presented as Gift to President

The Office of the National Assembly Member for Banjul North has issued a strong condemnation following the killing of a crocodile that was presented as a gift to President Adama Barrow. The incident, which has sparked public concern, was described by the office as “shocking” and “deeply disturbing.”

In a statement released on 16 November 2025, Hon. Modou Lamin B. Bah expressed dismay over the act, noting that crocodiles hold both cultural and ecological significance in The Gambia. He stressed that killing such an important species, particularly for the purpose of a symbolic or ceremonial gift, is unacceptable and contrary to national and international conservation principles.

The statement acknowledged that the gesture may have been intended as a sign of respect or goodwill, but insisted that such intentions cannot justify the killing of a protected species. “This act raises serious concerns about respect for wildlife and environmental stewardship,” the office stated.

Hon. Bah urged citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders to uphold practices that respect and preserve the country’s natural environment. He called on relevant authorities to investigate the incident and ensure accountability for what he described as the “unnecessary killing” of the crocodile.

The Banjul North representative further appealed for alternative ways of expressing goodwill that do not harm animals or the environment, reaffirming the need for stronger adherence to conservation standards and wildlife protection laws across the country.